Extended diversion time operations (EDTO)
Aeroplanes with more than two engines are currently excluded from the ETOPS scope and are also not covered by any criteria in the case of operations with a diversion time beyond 60 minutes. As I understand from the NPA aeroplanes with more than two engines are included within the scope of EDTO for consistency with two-engined aeroplanes and to further improve the safety of their operations. As we are operating B747F aeroplanes this would have a significant impact on our flight planning process. Does anyone have any confirmation about the adaptation by the commission /decision of this NPA as I could not find any other EASA publication on this subject?
Edto and etops might seems similar but have different meanings. Extended Diversion Time Operation applies to all multi engines airplanes indipendently from the number of engines, the concept was introduced by ICAO few years back. This SARP requires the state to evaluate the need for an approval for 3-4 engine aircrafts operations on certain routes, which, by manufacturer default, are generally allowed up to 180 min without the need of any approval,and as such should also be for Edto, without too much hassle.
Hi André, to what I know, EDTO is only mentionned in ICAO. (Doc 10085 refers). I also couldn't find any EU commission decision of the related NPA. If anyone knows, please share with us. Thanks in advance.
Don’t forget that the next limit in EDTO is not the engine relatability, but the fire and smoke fighting capacity of any aircraft, especially the cargo type.
Thank you for your comment Luca. Including consideration of these Time-Limited Systems in our flight planning tool will have the most impact.🙂
This is a very relevant point, especially for aircraft operators like the B747F. Including more-than-two-engined airplanes under the EDTO framework does mark a shift in regulatory approach, aiming to harmonize safety standards across all long-range operations. I’ve also reviewed the NPA and noticed the same but like you, I haven’t seen a final decision or adoption by the Commission yet. It would be great to hear if anyone has updates on the regulatory timeline or any recent communications from EASA on this matter. The operational planning implications are significant, so clarity would be really helpful.
Hi André, the content of the proposed amendments regarding EDTO published in NPA 2023-03 has not yet been included in an EASA Opinion and has not been published as a Commission regulation yet. EASA plans to publish an Opinion containing proposed EDTO amendments still this year.
Thank you, Adina !
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