Recent blog posts

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the best practice related to the use of the Aircraft Minimum Equipment List (MEL).

Introduction

The MEL is a commonly used tool allowing for the safe and continuous operation of the aircraft until rectification of certain inoperative equipment or unavailable system functions that are not adversely affecting the airworthiness of the aircraft. Understanding the principles and rules for correctly applying MEL items is crucial for both maintenance personnel and flight crews

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com looks at the various terms related to the codes or other certification specifications governing the design and performance of civil aeronautical products and articles.

“Amended Type Certificate (ATC)” means a design change made by the TC holder that requires an amendment to the TC and the Type Certification Data Sheet (TCDS).

“Appliance” means any instrument, mechanism, equipment, part, apparatus, appurtenance, or accessory, including communications equipment, that is used or intended to be used in operating or controlling an aircraft in flight, is installed in or attached to the aircraft, and is not part of an airframe, aircraft engine, or propeller.

Last modified on

Overview by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

Validation of Design Certificates (Typically None Minor)

The Technical Agents have established two paths for validation:

» Streamlined validation; or

Last modified on

Overview by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

Introduction – TIPs provide specific procedures related to the following:

»  Airworthiness certificates and monitoring of civil aeronautical products;

» Environmental certificates and testing of civil aeronautical products;

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the key aspects of Cabin Crew Operational Suitability Data.

Reference - Certification Specifications for Cabin Crew Data (CS-CCD) - Issue 2 - 10 December 20201 (Annex to ED Decision 2020/015/R).

Introduction

In accordance with the requirements of GM1 CCD.400 It is necessary to identify Cabin aspects of special emphasis.

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the specific tasks which require a QC input to ensure the production process integrity.

Introduction

With effect from 7th March 2023 EASA Part 21G - 21.A.139 Quality System is being renamed 21.A.139 Production Management System, however the functional requirements which can be considered as Quality Control Activities essentially remain the same.

Consider the following elements which are required to support the production planning process:

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com reviews features related to OSD.

Introduction

Operational Suitability Data (OSD) refers to a suite of data which is required to be established by aircraft manufacturers under the control and oversight of EASA Part 2. OSD is considered as Data which is important for the safe operation of aircraft type.

Last modified on

Introduction by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

To consider the Role of the Aviation Auditor in Risk Management?

Whilst it is the responsibility of the leadership team ultimately to assume control of the organisation's risk appetite, the actual day-to-day accountabilities related to specific tasks are usually delegated to other persons within the organisation.

Last modified on

» Considerations Related to Building Trust in Sales with Improved Communication
» Building Trust in Business Relationships

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers key aspects of building strong & effective communications with corporate and private customers.

Introduction

Last modified on

Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) www.sassofia.com considers in detail the forthcoming changes to Initial Airworthiness Regulation 748/2012, their applicability, and regulatory obligations.

Introduction - Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2022/201

This regulation applies to management systems and occurrence-reporting systems to be established by design and production organisations.

Ref also EASA Basic Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 and (EU) No 376/2014

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com reviews the core elements of an effective Aviation SMS.

Introduction

To provide for the most worthwhile understanding of organizational system behaviour ensure appropriate involvement of the people who are actually engaged with the tasks and workflow.

Enduring Values

Last modified on

Sofema Online Considers the Technical Records & Documentation Management

Requirements are driven by EASA Part 21 Regulatory requirements

Introduction – New Major Repair

Relevant substantiation data associated with a new major repair design and record keeping should include:

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the key elements related to the management of Recurrent Defects.

Introduction

The complexity of the Maintenance Control Administrative system which is used to control defects, including rectification and deferral, will vary according to the type of aircraft operated and the size and nature of the operation.

The same will apply to the methodologies related to the identification & handling of recurrent defects:

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com looks at the format & structure of the Aircraft Maintenance Manual.

Introduction

The Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) is a manual developed by the manufacturer that provides detailed technical maintenance instructions for a specific type of Aircraft.

» The content of the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) is part of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) that the Type Certificate Holder is required to provide and maintain.

Last modified on
Hits: 10869

Sofema Online (SOL)  www.sassofia.com reviews key aspects of Cabin Certification Requirements.

Introduction - Reference the following requirement:

» Aisle widths must meet requirements set forth in CS 25.815

» Emergency exits must be accessible per CS 25.813

Last modified on

Posted by on in Regulatory

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers optimising techniques to get your message across and accepted. 

Introduction

Delivering a Persuasive Message requires focus and the ability to follow a clear path to ensure a call to action. At all costs to avoid any vague or weak references, your message must be clear concise, and compelling.

Start by ensuring you have thought through your message and have a clear understanding of how you are going to deliver this message, in a way that will resonate with your audience.

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com takes a look at the structure and development of Practical Training.

Introduction

Whilst EASA Does NOT specify the use of the Training Needs Analysis (TNA) Process to Develop and serve as a Control for Practical Training it can be considered as “best practice” as it ensures a framework for effective management.

Training Procedures

Last modified on

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers the options to ensure compliance with AMC1 CAMO.A.310(a)(3) Airworthiness review staff qualifications (ED Decision 2020/002/R)

» Sofema Online Training for Airworthiness Review Staff
» EASA Airworthiness Review Staff Training Courses

Summary of General Qualifications for Airworthiness Review Staff

» At least 5 years of experience in continuing airworthiness;
» Acquired an appropriate license in compliance with Annex (III) Part-66 or an aeronautical degree or a national equivalent; 

Last modified on

Considerations by Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com

Introduction

The SAFA programme started in 1996 and is focused on assessing the level of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards of the airlines operating at the various airports which are within the jurisdiction of the European Aviation Authorities.

» The objective is to raise the overall safety level of airlines by requiring correction and prevention of identified discrepancies with ICAO standards.

Last modified on

Posted by on in Regulatory

Sofema Online (SOL) www.sofemaonline.com considers best practices to support supply chain optimization.

Introduction

The supply chain is a key element within the Maintenance Repair Organisation (MRO), correctly managed it may contribute to the overall efficiency of the process, if it is not controlled in the best way the supply chain may easily contribute to unnecessary overhead.

When we talk about the aviation supply chain we are essentially talking about all stages which are involved in delivering the parts and materials where they are needed, when they are needed at the best possible cost. Moreover, consideration is given to transportation and logistics both within the organisation and external to the organisation, cost, quantity, and lead time being of relevance to the understanding.

Last modified on