Not enough operators are taking the new EASA Part-NCC regulations seriously, according to Flightworx Aviation. The flight support company has been conducting in-house workshops to advise businesses of the changes implemented by Part-NCC, and although some are working toward compliance, others have reacted with skepticism and apathy.
The regulations, which have now come into force, affect all non-commercial operators flying a complex motor-powered aircraft with a place of business in an EASA Member State. Intended to bring the safety standards of these companies up to those of commercial firms, failure to comply risks financial and operational complications, from grounded aircraft to ineffective insurance. Competent authorities are now being asked to include NCC operations in their oversight programs, reviewing the nature, complexity and safety performance of the operator if an incident occurs.
As Eduard Ciofu, air operations manager, EASA, explained, “Safety is the most important asset for air operators; therefore, the new rules introduced by Part-NCC put significant emphasis on the operator’s management system. This means that safety hazards need to be continuously identified, and the resulting risks need to be managed.”
Andy Shaw, managing director, Flightworx, added, “We have been working hard to ensure that our clients are aware of the changes and that the regulatory shift is smooth. We are fully committed to helping our operators navigate these complex but important changes, and we’ve got the expertise in-house to bring anyone up to compliance.”
