EASA rules addressing non-commercial air operations with aeroplanes and helicopters will come into effect in all 32 EASA states. Starting from today, a brand new set of rules becomes fully applicable, replacing the existing national regulations in the field of air operations

This means that instead of fragmented rules in each of the 32 EASA States there will be a coherent, modern and updated European standard, applicable from Iceland to Cyprus and from Portugal to Finland. The existing national rules are replaced by the European ones. Even though the rules are newly introduced in Europe, the majority of their content is based on the ICAO requirements.

Therefore, the States who were already compliant with ICAO will have no difficulty to adjust to the new legislative framework.

To provide proportionate rules, the Agency established two different sets of rules for non-commercial operations depending on the complexity of the aircraft operated. For the operation of non-complex aircraft, proportionate, basic safety rules apply (Part-NCO). For the operation of complex aircraft (aeroplanes, helicopters) more advanced safety rules apply (Part-NCC and partly Part-ORO), particularly taking into account that complex aircraft may carry a larger number of passengers and usually require professional teams for their operations.

The new rules for non-commercial operations:

• ensure compliance with ICAO and cater well for global operations;
• offer enhanced flexibility and efficiency e.g. through the concept of alternative means of compliances;
• adhere to performance-based rulemaking principles;
• provide for a harmonised regulatory framework that will enable the safe development of General Aviation throughout Europe.