For over a year EAA Chapter 573 Norway has tried in vain to get our CAA to
revise their decision 18 months ago to restrict flight with Experimental
aircraft to only day VMC (i.e. no flying at night or in IMC, regardless of
the individual aircraft's instrumentation, lights or the pilot's
qualifications). EAA 573 is, however, not a directly affected party, so
they cannot appeal this decision.
I therefore decided to file a protest to the Department of Transportation
for the ruling against my aircraft, as a test case which could decide the
future for all such aircraft in Norway. At long last, the CAA has now
brought my appeal before the DoT for decision. Their only argument, which
I think is a very meek one, is "our professional opinion - at a general
level". What does that mean??!! I have the opportunity to comment the
statements made by the CAA in their presentation of the case.
I therefore ask all of you, in the different countries around the world,
kindly to give me feedback on the following, at your early convenience:
In your country, with respect to Experimental class aircraft (in some
European countries referred to as Annex II aircraft):
- Is night flight permitted, provided the aircraft has the required
lamps and lights?
- Is flying under IMC permitted, provided the aircraft has the
required instrumentation?
- Approximately how many aircraft (Experimental/Annex II) are
flying in your country (not limited to night/IMC-equipped/instrumented),
i.e. total fleet of homebuilt aircraft?
For my British friends: Some time ago your organization (I do not recall
its name) was preparing an appeal against a similar decision by your
authorities. Did you succeed, or where does this issue stand at the moment?
Thank you!
Svein
LN-SKJ
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