Part-66 Module 10: the EASA rules in one page

Module 10 tests how the European aviation safety system fits together and what it means for certifying staff. Check the current consolidated texts: rules are amended regularly.

The framework

ICAO was created by the Chicago Convention (1944). Its Annexes set standards: Annex 1 licensing, Annex 6 operations, Annex 7 registration marks, Annex 8 airworthiness, Annex 13 investigation, Annex 19 safety management. In the EU, the Basic Regulation (EU) 2018/1139 sets the essential requirements. The Commission adopts implementing rules on EASA's opinion; EASA adopts non-binding AMC and GM, type certifies products and standardises national authorities, which oversee organisations and issue licences.

• Regulation (EU) No 748/2012: Part-21 (type certificates, STCs, design and production approvals, CofA, permit to fly, repairs, ETSO).
• Regulation (EU) No 1321/2014: Part-M, Part-ML, Part-145, Part-66, Part-147, Part-CAMO, Part-CAO.
• Regulation (EU) No 965/2012: air operations, the AOC and MEL rules.
• Regulation (EU) No 376/2014: occurrence reporting, normally within 72 hours.

Part-66 licences

Categories A, B1, B2, B2L, B3, C and L. B1.1 is turbine aeroplanes, B1.2 piston aeroplanes, B1.3 turbine helicopters, B1.4 piston helicopters. Experience for B1.1: 5 years, or 3 with a relevant trade, or 2 after a Part-147 course (category A: 3, 2 or 1 year). Every basic knowledge exam needs 75%. The licence lapses five years after its last issue or change unless resubmitted, and is recognised across the EU. Group 1 aircraft need individual type ratings, with OJT for the first type in a category.

Part-145

Defined by its MOE and led by an accountable manager. Certifying staff need a company authorisation, 6 months of recent experience in any 2 years and continuation training every 2 years. Records are kept at least 3 years. Only authorised staff issue the CRS, using current maintenance data. Level 1 audit findings demand immediate action.

Continuing airworthiness and operations

The operator (or the owner) is responsible for airworthiness, usually through a CAMO with a CAME. The ARC, normally valid one year, keeps the unlimited-duration CofA valid. ADs are mandatory; service bulletins are recommendations unless mandated. The MEL, based on the MMEL, may be more restrictive but never less. Life-limited parts need back-to-birth records. Complex motor-powered aircraft must be maintained by Part-145 organisations.