CASA Media Release - Thursday, 25 July 2002
Lifejackets now compulsory
All commercial passenger aircraft taking off or landing over water are now required to carry life jackets or flotation devices.
A change to Civil Aviation Orders came into effect this month extending the requirement for life jackets or flotation devices to smaller aircraft.
Previously the rules did not require aircraft carrying nine or less passengers to be fitted with the life saving equipment.
The change to the Civil Aviation Orders was made in response to the investigation of the tragic Whyalla Airlines accident in Spencer Gulf.
The amendment covers passenger carrying aircraft which are involved in regular public transport or charter operations.
A life jacket or flotation device must be available for each person on a flight where it is possible the aircraft could be forced to land onto water during a departure or arrival.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority consulted with the aviation industry before making the amendment and allowed a period of time for operators to purchase and fit equipment.
The amendment has been made to section 20.11 of the Civil Aviation Orders (170Kb Adobe Acrobat file).
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Ref: MR0232