In the past, our inspectors travelled on site and did pilot assessments. They assessed the training given to pilots and verified that the number of hours on duty did not exceed the accepted standard. They verified the carriers' certification. When a problem was noted during a site visit, it was discussed with the pilots. Certain things were noted and the act was enforced.
This is not how things are done anymore. Instead, inspectors work in an office and check to see if documents are in order.
An inspector in Quebec once told me, for example, that he had been asked to check out an air show. Following up on a complaint from a citizen, he went out to the air show and found a situation that was far from normal. Unauthorized helicopters were taking people up on sightseeing tours.
That's what happens when checks are not done. Because people know that no surprise inspections will be conducted, they do whatever they want.