I read with interest the recent comments on the subject of who issues a certificate of return to service after aircraft maintenance. I am a licensed aircraft engineer and I think the debate should instead turn towards the qualification that is needed to make this certification.
Since the introduction of JAR66 and the European harmonisation of licensed aircraft engineer qualifications, there seems to be nothing but disharmony between the member Joint Aviation Authorities states. As a holder of UK Civil Aviation Authority licences, I must follow the UK's requirements to convert these to a full JAR66 licence. This requires me to re-qualify after 10 years of experience, a four-year apprenticeship and, of course, a disproportionate fee.
My colleagues in France are judged by their authority on an individual basis. As commonsense dictates, their initial trade training, aircraft specific training, experience and previous certification privileges are taken into account and on the basis of this, they may be issued a JAR66 licence. No fee is involved.
I wonder how pilots would react if they woke up tomorrow morning to realise they needed to requalify because the UK CAA no longer deemed their licences to be valid, yet equals in mainland Europe simply had to fill out a form.
I have converted to JAR66 and I support my European colleagues who, crucially, are trusted by their national governing body.
Name and address witheld
Source: Flight International
