National Aviation Authorities (NAAs)

European Aviation-The Compliance Paradox: Why “Qualified” Does Not Necessarily Equal “Safe”

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Aviation professional figure standing on a maze symbolizing compliance challenges in European aviation under Part-21 regulations

February 24, 2026

Steven Bentley

Introduction In the European context, where the regulatory landscape is becoming an Eco system of interconnected parts – Part M & Part-CAMO, Part-145, Part-21, and the cybersecurity mandates of Part-IS a “checkbox” mentality will not work in the long view. Reality Check – In the traditional world, we measured safety by the absence of accidents. In…

EASA Electronic Personnel Licenses (EPL)-ICAO Amendment 178 to Annex 1

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Futuristic digital interface showing an electronic personnel license icon above a laptop keyboard, representing EASA Electronic Personnel Licenses (EPL) and ICAO Amendment 178 to Annex 1, with Sofema Aviation Services branding.

January 13, 2026

Steven Bentley

Sofema Online (SOL) Reviews ICAO Amendment 178: The Global Standard Introduction Amendment 178 introduced Chapter 5 to Annex 1, specifically defining the technical specifications for EPLs. Its primary goal is to ensure that a digital license issued by one State is recognized and verifiable by any other State. Core Requirements Offline Verification:A license must be…

Role of Information Security Management System (ISMS) in Aviation Safety

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ISMS blog image

May 02, 2025

Steven Bentley

Sofema Aviation Services (SAS) Considers the Role of ISMS in Aviation Safety – EASA Regulatory Context and European Operations Introduction An Information Security Management System (ISMS) plays a critical role in ensuring aviation safety, particularly in the context of increasing digitalization and interconnected systems within the European aviation sector. An effective ISMS is essential for…