For the general and business aviation industry to thrive, it is essential that regulatory improvements keep pace with the continued growth and evolution of the industry. Recently, we have been fortunate to see such positive collaborations between authorities, regulators and stakeholders take shape to progress the health of the industry and its safety.
Earlier this year, both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued guidance on the use of remote and virtual assistance technologies to support certain tests, inspections and oversight activities. These technologies have been particularly useful during the pandemic as they facilitate safe and cost-effective options for inspections and certifications to continue in a timely manner. The success of these technologies will rely on the ongoing collaboration between the industry and FAA/EASA to broaden and improve its use where practical and appropriate, especially in the long-term.
Just recently, we witnessed EASA issue its first Air Operator Certificate (AOC) to a business aviation operator, Luxaviation Group. For companies that operate in multiple EU member states, including maintenance and training organizations, an AOC permits EASA to become that company’s competent authority, much like the FAA, instead of being overseen by the national authority in each individual country.
The ability to operate under a centralized authority will assist in streamlining operations and provide more consistency in regulatory interpretation and oversight. As more European companies see the productive environment which comes from operating under an AOC, they will likely begin to follow suit. This will turn will create more opportunities for general and business aviation to thrive in Europe.
Another significant regulatory advancement was recently reached with the FAA’s notice of availability for Accepted Means of Compliance to part 23 general aviation airworthiness requirements. While this set of consensus standards did take an extended period of time to be published, their release was much anticipated and welcome. These standards will enable and encourage safety and innovation in general aviation airplanes and further developments in advanced air mobility and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. This recognition of updated and new standards demonstrates how the collaborative relationships between authorities and industry enables equipage of safety enhancing and innovative technologies into general aviation in a timely manner.
While these regulatory improvements have been in the works for some time, their current implementation will certainly assist our industry as we continue to navigate through the pandemic, as well as going forward. We applaud both the FAA and EASA for their work in bringing these regulatory improvements into fruition. They will have a profound impact on the growth of the industry, especially when it comes to advancing safety, innovation and technology.
At the General Aviation Manufacturers Association, we worked with the regulators and authorities to see these regulatory improvements implemented. Our work will continue as we focus on meeting the challenges that our industry faces, both in the short-term and in the long-term. These latest advancements will certainly assist in guiding our industry into the future, which is sure to be bright.
