Tuesday, 3rd September 2019
Mr Rob Walker
Executive Manager Industry Stakeholder Engagement
GPO BOX 2005
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Mr Shane Carmody
Director of Aviation Safety, CASA
GPO BOX 2005
Canberra ACT 2601, Australia
Basic Class 2 Holders Unable to be Issued an Initial Private Pilots License PPL(a)
Dear Mr Walker,
Further to our previous correspondence regarding the Basic Class 2 medical certificate;
As you are aware, a Basic Class 2 certificate holder can exercise the use of their Private Pilots License PPL(a), on the basis that they are restricted to 5 passengers, flying piston engine aircraft with a maximum weight of 8,618kg, fly day VFR, nil aerobatics, and below 10,000ft altitude.
Despite the above, AOPA Australia has become aware that CASA will not allow a Basic Class 2 medical certificate holder to obtain an initial Private Pilots License PPL(a), unless they hold a full Class 2 medical certificate at the time of their flight test. This information has been provided by the CASA Flight Operations and Licensing Client Services department.
This position appears to contradict CASA’s safety determination that clearly states that it is safe for a PPL(a) holder to exercise their license, subject to the Basic Class 2 restrictions.CASA’s refusal to issue an initial PPL(a) to Basic Class 2 holders discourages pilots to undertake additional flight training that improves pilot skills and overall aviation industry safety.
AOPA Australia is calling on CASA to remove this unnecessary restriction, enabling Basic Class 2 holders to be issued their initial PPL(a), subject to the normal CASA flight test requirements.
If you could please confirm receipt of this letter and provide advice as to why Basic Class 2 holders are currently denied an initial issue of a PPL(a) it would be appreciated.
Thank you for your time and I look forward to your reply.
Yours Sincerely,
BENJAMIN MORGAN
Executive Director – AOPA Australia
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