The Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023
Overview
The Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 amend existing retained EU Regulations concerning initial and continuing airworthiness, balloons, and sailplanes. These amendments are necessary to comply with the revised standards and recommended practices adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), ensuring that the United Kingdom remains in line with international aviation safety standards. Additionally, the regulations introduce other measures to enhance the regulation of aviation safety.
The amendments address various aspects, including the implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS) for organizations involved in the design, production, and maintenance of aeronautical products. SMS ensures a systematic approach to managing safety, enhancing oversight and continuous improvement of aviation safety. The amendments align with international standards and fulfil the requirements of the Chicago Convention.
Additionally, the regulations introduce changes related to the operation of balloons and sailplanes, extending the deadlines for pilots to hold licenses issued under the Regulations. These changes align with ongoing reviews of private pilot licensing and provide sufficient time for industry preparation.
The Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 were made on the 30th of May 2023 and will come into force in full on the 1st of July 2024.
The Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 fall under the jurisdiction of national authorities in the following countries:
- United Kingdom;
- England;
- Scotland;
- Wales; and
- Northern Ireland.
Furthermore, they also apply to aircraft registered in the United Kingdom, regardless of their location.
Do the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 affect my business?
If the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 applies to you, or if your business is connected in any way to the UK aviation sector, you may have the following requirements:
- Implementation of Safety Management Systems (SMS): The regulation amends existing regulations to require organizations involved in the design, production, and maintenance of aeronautical products to implement SMS. SMS involves a systematic approach to managing safety, including policies, procedures, and accountability.
- Compliance with International Standards: The amendments align the regulations with revised standards and recommended practices (SARPs) adopted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) under the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the Chicago Convention). This ensures that the UK remains compliant with international aviation safety standards.
- Requirements for Design and Production Organisations: The amendments introduce requirements for organizations responsible for the design or production of aeronautical products and parts. This includes the need for standardised instructions on maintenance, compliance with safety standards, and the establishment of safety policies and procedures.
- Requirements for Maintenance Organisations: The regulations also impose requirements on aircraft maintenance organizations and licensing of aircraft engineers. Similar to design and production organisations, maintenance organisations are required to implement SMS and adhere to safety standards.
- Deadline Extensions for Licensing: The regulation extends the deadlines for obtaining licenses under Regulation (EU) 395/2018 (balloon pilots) and Regulation (EU) 1976/2018 (sailplane pilots) to align with ongoing reviews of private pilot licensing. This allows existing license holders to transition smoothly and avoids frequent changes within a short period.
Do I need the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 in my ISO Compliance Register?
You will need the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 in your ISO Compliance Register if your business falls under one or more of the following organisation categories:
- Aircraft manufacturers;
- Aircraft maintenance organisations;
- Aviation engineering companies; and
- Piloting licensing authorities.
It’s important to note that the regulation may have additional implications for various other stakeholders in the aviation industry, such as aviation training organizations, aviation regulatory bodies, and those involved in the supply chain of aeronautical products. The specific application and requirements may vary depending on the nature of the business and its involvement in aviation-related activities.
Legislation related to the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023
Legislation related to the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 includes:
- The Air Navigation Order 2016
- Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2015/1998 laying down detailed measures for the implementation of the common basic standards on aviation security
- Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2023/203 laying down rules for the application of Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 as regards requirements for the management of information security risks with a potential impact on aviation safety for organisations
More information
Visit the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023 article on the legislation.gov.uk website.
Create an account in the ISO Compliance Register App and add this article (in which you will find the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulations 2023) to your Register.
