industry information > civil air transport > European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)

SBAC is keen to assist in a successful and efficient transition of the UK Civil Aviation Authority's (CAA) responsibilities in the area of safety certification and organisation approvals to the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA).

The process of transition is continuing, but has not been smooth. Industry has concerns about the effeciency of the application process and associate financial arrangements including the level of fees and charges applied.

The SBAC Safety and Regulation Board has established a direct dialogue with the EASA certification directorate senior management team to address process issues and aims to work closely with them through 2006.

SBAC representatives are also actively engaged in supporting the Aerospace and Defence Industries Association of Europe's (ASD) interactions with EASA on proposed reforms to fees and charges, particularly through the recently formed ASD fees and charges task force (FACT). SBAC has also established a close dialogue with both the CAA and the Department for Transport (DfT) in order to understand the issues arising as EASA internalises currently outsourced certification functions.

EASA Fees & Charges Campaign

SBAC were concerned by an EASA proposal earlier this year to substantially increase fees and charges for certification processes, in order to address an immediate budgetary shortfall.

SBAC played a leading role in representing the UK industry view both directly to EASA and through the ASD Fees and Charges Task Force (FACT). The case presented by industry has contributed to a significant and temporary revision to the EASA fees and charges regime for the remainder to 2006.

EASA Management Board agendas, meeting minutes and decisions for 2006 are expected to be made available during the year. For advice please contact us.