The Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M), commonly abbreviated as ARC, is a crucial document in European aviation regulation. It certifies that an aircraft complies with the airworthiness requirements specified within EASA Part-M regulations, allowing the aircraft to operate legally within the European Union. Issued after a comprehensive assessment of an aircraft’s maintenance records and physical condition, the ARC acts as an official confirmation of the aircraft’s continuing airworthiness status.
The ARC is mandatory for all aircraft registered in EASA member states and requires periodic renewal, typically every 12 months. It is pivotal for safety, ensuring that the aircraft meets regulatory maintenance standards established by the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This article will explore the detailed aspects of the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M), including its purpose, issuance process, and technical requirements.
Contents
Understanding the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M)
The Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M) serves as a formal verification that an aircraft complies with the necessary standards under Part-M for continuing airworthiness. Requirements for the ARC are laid out in Commission Regulation (EU) No 1321/2014, which stipulates that the certificate must be issued by an approved Airworthiness Review Staff (ARS) or an approved Airworthiness Review Organisation (ARO).
The process involved in issuing the ARC involves a thorough review of maintenance logs, repairs, modifications, and overall aircraft condition. In accordance with EASA Part-M Subpart I, the review checks the aircraft’s compliance with airworthiness directives (ADs), mandatory inspections, and whether scheduled maintenance has been completed satisfactorily. The ARC certifies the continuing validity of the Certificate of Airworthiness (CofA) until the next review scheduled, which is usually 12 months but may vary based on operational use.
Technical Requirements and Validity of the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M)
The technical requisites of the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M) are stringent. The certificate confirms that the aircraft operates in accordance with the approved maintenance program, stipulated under Part-M Subpart G. This includes compliance with all applicable Airworthiness Directives and implementation of mandatory service bulletins. During the review, the aircraft must be physically inspected, and the review must include verification of logbooks, technical records, and current maintenance status.
The ARC’s validity is generally twelve months from the date of issuance, with a maximum extension of up to three months under specific conditions, such as when a new certificate is being processed. If an ARC expires without renewal, the aircraft must be grounded until a new certificate is issued. This emphasizes the certificate’s role in maintaining safety and regulatory compliance within the aviation sector.
Issuance Process and Regulatory Oversight
The issuance of the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M) is carried out by the competent authority or an approved organisation. The review team consists of qualified Airworthiness Review Staff who have completed training and possess sufficient knowledge under EASA guidelines. Applicants must submit a comprehensive maintenance review report, which includes details such as compliance with Airworthiness Directives, status of life-limited parts, and records of repairs.
EASA mandates that all reviews must be documented, and aircraft operators are responsible for facilitating access to maintenance records and the aircraft itself. For further details on regulatory compliance and detailed guidelines, operators can consult the official EASA page on Part-M [EASA Part-M regulations](https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/document-library/regulations/part-m). This central repository contains all up-to-date regulatory texts, interpretations, and guidance material associated with airworthiness and continuing airworthiness procedures under EASA Part-M.
Conclusion
The Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M), or ARC, is a fundamental aviation regulatory requirement within the European Union. It confirms an aircraft’s compliance with continuing airworthiness standards, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. The rigorous process of assessment and stringent technical checks makes the ARC vital in maintaining an aircraft’s operational status.
Understanding the technical and regulatory aspects of the Airworthiness Review Certificate (EASA Part-M) is essential for operators, maintenance organisations, and regulatory bodies alike. Regular renewal and adherence to EASA Part-M regulations guarantee that aircraft flying within European airspace meet the highest safety standards.
For More: What is PHC in Aviation? (Primary Flight Display (Airbus Acronyms))