In revisiting our approach, we have been focussed on what was behind the changes – the flight operations rules are about improving safety in the aviation industry.
Human error is a leading cause of accidents. Safety management systems, training and checking systems and training in human factors and non-technical skills help to address this issue and improve safety. New rotorcraft performance requirements also lead to safety improvements.
While implementing those systems remains a key priority as they contribute to a safer industry, we also recognise that getting this right, without overly burdening operators, is crucial for keeping our skies safe.
We’ve also learnt a great deal as we’ve worked with many of you over the last year through this transition and will be using that experience as we move forward.
Changes to our approach will affect transition deadlines for:
- human factors and non-technical skills training (was June and December 2023)
- safety management systems (was June and December 2024)
- rotorcraft performance (was June and September 2023)
- implementation of training and checking systems (was not before 1 September 2023).
We will also be considering what tools and resources will help deliver the safety improvements that these bring as well as our surveillance approach.
We will communicate directly to operators with a revised timeline within the next 4 to 6 weeks. While the end point is being extended, operators do not have to wait.
