Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the requirements to comply with Maintenance Annex Guidance (MAG) change 8

Introduction      

Contracting to EASA-approved Facilities

If the repair station sends an article to another organization that is EASA-approved and FAA-certificated, and that person or entity exercises the privileges of its certificate by assuming responsibility for approving for return to service each item on which it has worked, that process is not considered contracting (Ensure the contracted organization is properly certificated to perform that work.)

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the role of a Functional Hazard Assessment as part of the Aircraft Type Certificate Certification Process.

Introduction

A Functional Hazard Assessment (FHA) is a systematic evaluation conducted to identify and assess potential hazards associated with the functions and behaviours of a system or process. It is common to ensure safety and mitigate risks.

>> The FHA focuses on analyzing the functional aspects of a system to identify potential hazards and their potential consequences.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com reviews a typical process for the performance of EASA Part 147 Type Training Practical Assessments

Introduction

Practical assessments are conducted to evaluate the knowledge and skills level of the trainee required to perform safe maintenance and required in support of aircraft-type practical training.

Steve Bentley FRAeS CEO of Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) considers in depth a number of issues and challenges which are faced by the Industry

>> Due to various misunderstandings related to the need for regulatory training and

>> Obligations related to the management of competence.

Third Country Approved Organizations are responsible directly for the competence of all staff required to discharge EASA Regulatory obligations.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com looks at the typical duties of EASA Part 147 Practical Assessors - Examiners.

Introduction - Examiners are responsible to the Training Manager for:

>> Ensuring that procedures established in this Maintenance Training Organisation Exposition MTOE 1 and Training Procedures are fully complied with.
>> The security of the examination question databank, or examination papers when under his/her control.
>> The selection of the examination questions/papers appropriate to the phase of the training course being examined in accordance with the Training Procedures. Phase examination questions will reflect the course syllabus material, level of instruction and learning objectives.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers typical auditing elements across multiple business areas and elements. The following issues and challenges are considered for each element.

>> Related to the effectiveness of ensuring EASA compliance as per EASA and ICAO requirements, certified aerodromes shall demonstrate and continually monitor compliance with the requirements through audits and inspections.

Ensuring Best Practices related to EASA-compliant Auditing and Oversight of European airports.

EASA-compliant auditing and oversight are multi-faceted processes that require a comprehensive approach. Regular audits, continuous training, and a proactive approach to safety and compliance are essential for ensuring effective and compliant aerodrome operations in Europe.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers specific issues related to the acceptance of aeronautical parts and materials.

Introduction - Here we will consider in depth the importance of FAA and EASA Stores Inspection Function and the steps necessary to ensure the correctness of all documentation

The role of the Aviation Stores Receiving Inspector is vital in ensuring the safety and compliance of aircraft parts and materials. By following the provided guidance, organizations can ensure that their inspectors are competent, effective, and up-to-date with the latest regulations and best practices.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com introduces the role, purpose and applicable regulations related to the Ramp Inspection Programmes Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) and Safety Assessment of Community Aircraft (SACA)

EU Ramp Inspection Program

>> Used by third-country operators (SAFA) or
>> Used by operators under the regulatory oversight of another EU Member State (SACA)

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the applicability of EASA Part CAMO & Part CAO

Introduction - When is EASA part CAMO applicable and when is EASA Part CAO applicable consider EASA Annex V Applicability Selecting the right airworthiness oversight for your aircraft

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has different regulations and oversight protocols depending on the specific needs and operations of an aircraft.

The two main oversight protocols are Part CAMO (Continuing Airworthiness Management Organization) and Part CAO (Combined Airworthiness Organization).

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers EASA regulatory requirements related to Aircraft Emergency Lighting Systems.

Introduction - CS 25.812 Emergency Lighting

(a) An emergency lighting system, independent of the main lighting system, must be installed.

>> Sources of general cabin illumination may be common
>> Independent Power Supply for E/Light System
>> Shall include

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the role of Bow Tie Analysis within an effective Aviation Safety Management System.

Introduction

Bow Tie Analysis is a risk management technique that is commonly used in various industries to identify potential hazards and assess the risks associated with them. It is a visual representation of the cause-and-effect relationship between different factors that can lead to an undesired event, along with the controls that can be implemented to prevent or mitigate the consequences of that event.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the fundamentals concerning regulatory oversight of an EASA compliant Reliability Program

 Aviation Regulatory Authorities face several challenges in auditing and ensuring effective oversight of operator Mandatory Aircraft Reliability Programs. These challenges include

>> The complexity of the programs

>> The need for specialized technical expertise

>> The limited resources of regulatory agencies

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com looks at the use of Risk-Based Oversight in support of the Aviation System

Introduction - ICAO Drivers for Risk-Based Oversight

ICAO recognizes the importance of risk-based oversight systems in aviation and has developed a set of drivers to support their implementation. These drivers are designed to help aviation authorities and operators understand the benefits of risk-based oversight and to provide guidance on how to implement such a system effectively.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers oversight fundamentals related to the assessment of an EASA Compliant Quality Assurance System (QAS) / Compliance Management System (CMS)

Introduction – Oversight activities based on looking at how the organisation looks at itself

The Accountable Manager within the EASA system is directly responsible to ensure financing of any aspect of the business which directly contributes to the showing of compliance with regulatory requirements.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the fundamentals of a Risk-Based Oversight System (RBO)

Introduction

An aviation Risk-Based Oversight System is a system that aims to enhance safety in the aviation industry by identifying, analyzing, and mitigating risks.

The goal of RBO is to take a proactive and risk-based approach to aviation safety oversight. By identifying potential safety risks and taking appropriate measures to mitigate those risks, regulatory authorities can help ensure the safety of aviation operations.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the basic elements of business risk and associated change management principles.

Introduction

Organizational change: Aviation businesses must adapt to changing market conditions, technological advancements, and customer preferences. This requires effective change management principles, including communication, training, and leadership support.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the Continuing Airworthiness Requirements to ensure compliance with GM M.A.301(i)  ED Decision 2020/002/R.

Introduction Maintenance Check Flights (MCFs)

The definition of and operational requirements for MCFs are laid down in the Air Operations Regulation and are carried out under the control and responsibility of the aircraft operator.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the Performance-Based Oversight (PBO) approach proscribed by EASA.

Introduction

EASA's risk-based and performance-based oversight approach is designed to ensure that the aviation industry operates safely, efficiently, and sustainably while minimizing risks to passengers, crew, and the environment.

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com reviews the EASA recommended process for moving through the risk assessment process.

Introduction

Managing the safety risks related to a change is a standard component of SMS, as specified in multiple EASA regulations for a Management System (AMC1 ORO.GEN.200(a)(1);(2);(3);(5) Management system

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the safety management system elements within an EASA Part 21 Subpart G Production Organisation Approval holder (POAH)

Introduction (GM1 21.A.139(c))

Safety management seeks to proactively identify hazards and mitigate the related safety risks before they result in aviation accidents and incidents.