SUMMARY:
The European Aviation Safety Agency has introduced NPA "Embodiment of Safety Management System (SMS) requirements into Commission Regulation (EC) No. 2042/2003" covering Part M and Part 145 (rulemaking task reference: RMT.0251/MDM.055). Click here to view the notice of proposed amendment.
MAJOR HIGHLIGHTS:
The 185 pages of this NPA include significant changes to the Part 145 exposition. While these seem extreme, EASA has adopted a very progressive approach of ensuring that Part 145 is "SMS complaint" rather than overlaying a safety management system over the top of existing regulations. This approach is consistent with the philosophy supported by the Aircraft Electronics Association.
The NPA includes the following changes:
- Management system.
- Internal safety reporting scheme.
- Human factors.
- Fatigue risk management.
- Part M requirements applicable under Part 145.
The consultation period will end April 22, 2013.
AEA COMMENTARY:
The AEA is reviewing the NPA and will be distributing updates during the next few weeks. The NPA will be a topic of discussion at the 56th annual AEA International Convention & Trade Show, March 25-28, in Las Vegas, Nev., as well as the 2013 AEA Europe Regional Meeting.
Preliminary reviews and discussions with EASA have not compromised the ability of AEA member companies to utilize the SMS program provided to the membership by the association. The SMS training will be provided at the AEA Europe Regional Meeting in Munich, Germany, April 29-30.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact Ric Peri, AEA vice president of government and industry affairs, by email at ricp@aea.net or by phone at 202-589-1144.