On 1 July 2024, the Aviation Safety (Amendment) Regulation 2023, Statutory Instrument (SI) 2023 No 588 came into effect, amending UK Regulation (EU) No 748/2012, Annex I (Part 21). This amendment introduces a requirement in Part 21 for approval holders to implement a Safety Management System by 1 July 2026.
This page provides information to existing UK Part 21 approval holders on the requirements and application process necessary to transition their approval to ensure compliance with UK Regulation (EU) No 748/2012, within the required timescale.
Pre-Requisites
Organisations must hold an existing Part 21 approval issued by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
How do I apply?
Organisations are required to complete the Part 21 SMS transition application form.
How much does it cost?
Currently there is no fee for the implementation of the Safety Management System (SMS) into an existing Part 21 approval.
What do I need to send with my application?
- A completed application form submitted by an Authorised Representative of the Company.
- Completed UK CAA – Details of Nominated Personnel in an Airworthiness Organisation (SRG1769) for all nominated postholders as per 21.A.245.
- A revised DOH pursuant to 21.A.243, detailing the key safety procedures and processes.
- A copy of the Organisation's Safety Management Manual if the key safety procedures and processes are not included within the DOH.
- A completed CAA SMS Evaluation Tool V7 (SRG1776).
How long will it take for my application to be processed?
The implementation of Safety Management System (SMS) into the organisations Part 21 approval will be signified by approval of the Design Organisation Handbook (DOH) and any associated documents. The timescale for this is dependent on several factors, including the quality of the submission by the organisation.
What happens next?
The following information advises on what will happen to your application next.
After receipt of a correctly completed application form and associated documents, the Organisation Approvals team will forward them to the allocated Oversight Specialist/Team Leader within 20 working days.
The allocated Oversight Specialist/Team Leader will review the documents as a desktop review and when acceptable, approve the Design Organisation Handbook (DOH). Following approval of the DOH, the organisation’s SMS transition will be considered to be complete.
An onsite verification of the Part 21 approval will be planned within the next 2 years, as part of routine oversight to include an evaluation of the Safety Management System (SMS).
How long is it valid for?
Once granted, an approval requires a recommendation for continuation every 24 - 36 months (unless otherwise agreed) from the date of issue. This is raised by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) Surveyor following a satisfactory audit programme.
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