Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) Explores Key Aspects of the EASA STC Certification Process and Bilateral Considerations with TCAA
Introduction
Both EASA and TCCA adhere to international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), although each has its own detailed regulations. Bilateral agreements aim to harmonize these standards, reducing discrepancies and creating a more efficient pathway to certification across both regions.
STC Relationship Between EASA & TCAA The Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA) between EASA and TCCA facilitates the validation and recognition of Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs), enabling mutual recognition and simplified processes.
Mutual Recognition and Simplified Validation
- BASA allows for streamlined validation of STCs between EASA and TCCA. If one authority approves an STC, the other may accept it with minimal additional requirements.
- This mutual recognition reduces costs and administrative burdens, as applicants avoid undergoing a full certification process in both jurisdictions.
Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA)
The BASA framework enables cooperation in certification, maintenance, and oversight. Key provisions include mutual acceptance of:
- Type certificates for aircraft, engines, and components
- Design approvals for modifications
- Production certificates
- Maintenance organization approvals
Certification Application Process
The certification process begins with a formal inquiry to both EASA and TCCA, where manufacturers submit detailed product information. The application must include:
- A description of the aircraft or component
- Technical specifications
- Supporting engineering data
- Compliance reports (CS for EASA, CARs for TCCA)
Type Certification (TC) Process
- EASA Process: EASA is the primary authority for products designed in the EU, ensuring compliance with Certification Specifications (CS).
- TCCA Process: For Canadian-designed products, TCCA ensures adherence to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs).
For bilateral certification, the EASA Type Certificate and supporting documentation can be submitted to TCCA under BASA for simplified acceptance.
Validation Process
- EASA Validation of TCCA Certificates: EASA reviews Transport Canada’s certificates for compliance with European regulations.
- TCCA Validation of EASA Certificates: TCCA similarly reviews EASA’s approval, but may require additional steps for unique technologies not covered by existing agreements.
The validation process focuses on areas where standards differ, aiming to minimize additional requirements while ensuring compliance.
Certification and Verification Process Manufacturers must demonstrate compliance with safety and performance standards, including testing, data submission, and simulations. Both EASA and TCCA assess whether the data meets their respective standards.
Approval of Design Changes
For already-certified products, any design changes need approval:
- Design changes approved by EASA can be submitted to TCCA for simplified validation, and vice versa.
- Minor modifications are often accepted without additional verification, but major changes may require further scrutiny.
Production Certification
Production facilities must meet stringent quality assurance standards. Under BASA, production certificates issued by EASA are recognized by TCCA, eliminating the need for duplicate audits, as long as oversight programs align.
Ongoing Verification and Maintenance
Once certified, manufacturers and operators have ongoing obligations:
- Continued Airworthiness: EASA and TCCA require periodic updates to ensure compliance.
- Maintenance Approvals: Under BASA, maintenance facilities certified by EASA can seek reciprocal recognition in Canada.
- Issue Resolution: If defects or safety issues arise, both authorities collaborate to investigate and resolve them through coordinated actions, such as issuing Airworthiness Directives (ADs).
STC Application Process
Initial Application and Inquiry
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- The STC issuer applies for certification of a modification. If already approved by EASA or TCCA, the applicant can request validation under the bilateral agreement.
- The application must include technical data, compliance with regulations, and safety impact assessments.
Initial Certification of the STC
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- The issuing authority evaluates the data, conducts flight tests (if necessary), and assesses the modification’s safety and performance.
STC Validation by the Other Authority
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- Once issued, the other authority validates the STC. Most modifications undergo a streamlined process if they align with the bilateral agreement. For complex modifications, further technical review may be required.
Compliance Demonstration for STCs Applicants must provide evidence that the modification complies with safety regulations, including documentation of changes, flight tests, and engineering analyses. The level of review varies depending on the modification’s complexity.
Production and Installation Approvals Once certified, the STC modification can be installed on aircraft in both regions without additional certification or inspections, provided production facilities comply with recognized quality standards.
Ongoing Verification and Airworthiness STC modifications are subject to regular inspections, and both EASA and TCCA may issue service bulletins or ADs to address any post-certification issues.
Next Steps
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Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) and Sofema Online (SOL) provides regulatory training related to Bilateral relationships between EASA – FAA – TCAA and UK CAA please see the websites or email team@sassofia.com
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EASA, STC, Certification, SAS blogs, Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA), Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), TCAA, TCCA (Transport Canada Civil Aviation), Authority, Validation Process
