Introduction to aviation legislation
This page describes how the legislation affecting the aviation industry is structured. It does not represent a complete listing of all applicable regulations.
Civil Aviation Act 1988
The Act forms the basis of the regulations and describes CASA's role in enforcing the regulations.
Civil Aviation Act 1988 in PDF
Civil Aviation Regulations 1988 (CAR)
The CARs are gradually being replaced by the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR). Until they are completely replaced, you will need to refer to both sets of legislation.
The CARs are supported by a number of other documents:
- Civil Aviation Orders (CAOs) are published by CASA. The CARs require you to comply with the relevant CAOs.
- Civil Aviation Advisory Publications (CAAPs) provide guidance and information in a designated subject area, or show a method acceptable to an authorised person or CASA for complying with a related Civil Aviation Regulation. CAAPs should always be read in conjunction with the referenced regulations.
Civil Aviation Safety Regulations 1998 (CASR)
The CASRs are divided into a number of parts. Each Part may have the following supporting documents:
- Manual of Standards (MOS) comprises specifications (Standards) prescribed by CASA, of uniform application, determined to be necessary for the safety of air navigation.
- Advisory Circulars (ACs) are intended to provide recommendations and guidance to illustrate a means, but are not necessarily the only means, of complying with the Regulations. ACs may explain certain regulatory requirements by providing interpretive and explanatory material.
- Airworthiness Directives (ADs) take their authority from CASR Part 39.
Other Acts and Regulations
Other aviation-related acts and regulations are available through the links on the Aviation legislation page of the CASA web site.