Consultation on proposed changes to CAP 553

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has today published a consultation on proposed changes to the following chapters of CAP 553 (BCAR Section A):

Chapter A3-7: Permit to Fly Aircraft - Initial and Continuing Airworthiness;
Chapter A8-26: Approval of Organisations Supporting Recreational Aviation;
Chapter A8-21: Approval of Organisations Responsible for Design or Production;
Chapter A8-23: Approval of Organisations Responsible for Maintenance and Restoration of Non-Part-21 Aircraft;
Chapter A8-24: Approval of Organisations Responsible for Maintenance and Restoration of Non-Part-21 Aircraft below 5700kg, or Single Engine Helicopters, not used for Commercial Air Transport or State Purposes;

The changes to Chapter A3-7 have been made largely to reflect the introduction of the new privileges in A8-26. There have also been minor updates to reflect the UK's withdrawal from the EU and EASA. Chapter A8-26 sees further increased delegated authority to approved organisations through new oversight privileges as well as the ability to issue a National Permit to Fly.

The changes in Chapter A8-21 Supplement 1 (UK CAA Approved Certificate) includes updated instructions for completing the form. Supplement 1 appears in the consultation document in its entirety, as amended, except for deletions.

The change in Chapter A8-23 clarifies the requirement for certifying staff to hold appropriate aircraft type or group rating when performing base maintenance of other than large aircraft.

The change in Chapter A8-24, clarifies by excluding aircraft that are below 5700kg but are fitted with aircrew assisted escape/egress systems, whether activated or not, from the scope of the chapter. This amendment follows AAIB investigation into the accident of G-BXFI during an air display near Shoreham airport and the subsequent recommendation arising from the Accident Report AAR 1/2017, Safety Recommendation 2015-042.

We are inviting stakeholders to comment on the proposed amendments to CAP 553 (BCAR Section A). The consultation will close on 27 May 2021.

Consultation CAP 553 (BCAR Section A, A3-7, A3-26)

Consultation CAP 553 (BCAR Section A, A8-21, A8-23, A8- 24)