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CASA media release - Friday 3 November 2006
Proposed new rules for aviation maintenance

Australia's aviation industry is being asked to comment on a set of proposals for new regulations covering aircraft maintenance.

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has released a notice of proposed rule making for the maintenance suite of regulations.

This covers continuing airworthiness, maintenance personnel licensing, approved maintenance organisations and maintenance training organisations.

CASA is drafting the new rules to achieve a better focus on safety outcomes using regulations that are clear and concise.

The proposed rules are based on the European model, which means they meet international best practice and will facilitate easier access by Australia's aviation industry to international markets.

Peter Boyd, head of CASA's Planning and Governance office, says the current rules covering aircraft maintenance and maintenance personnel are complicated and outdated.

“The new regulations being proposed by CASA focus on safety outcomes and will give industry much more flexibility in their operations,” Mr Boyd said.

“What we are proposing are rules that tell the maintenance industry what they need to achieve to be compliant, rather than how to achieve compliance.   This means the industry can choose the way they meet the new rules.

“One option is using CASA's suggested methodology - known as an acceptable means of compliance.   But some people and organisations may choose to develop their own way of achieving compliance which will better suit their operations.   They can present this option for approval.

“As well as providing industry with flexibility and efficiencies this will encourage innovation.”

Under safety-outcome based rules industry will be given more privileges and delegations and the way CASA oversights organisations and individuals will change.

Maintenance organisations will be expected to take primary responsibility for safety and managing their risks, with CASA providing support through education and training, as well as conducting surveillance and regulatory enforcement.

The comment period for the notice of proposed rule making closes on November 27.   Full details at: http://www.casa.gov.au/newrules/maint/index.htm

 

 

Media contact:
Peter Gibson
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR0668