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Since 2018, EASA published two issues of SC-VTOL and multiple issues of related Means of Compliance documents in a stepwise process. This was done to support the industry with information and clarity on aspects with the most significant safety impact, in a timely manner.

To simplify the use of VTOL capable aircraft (VCA) airworthiness objectives and related MoC, EASA has created this consolidated document, including the already consulted and finally published documents for small category VCAs.

It includes the documents listed under the chapter Revised Paragraphs. While published as Easy Access Rules for VTOL, it is important to note that the content remains still a Special Condition with its related MOC. Feedback on the application of the SC VTOL and its MoC in the context of the certification activities and aircraft operation might result in changes to these documents. Such changes would be introduced by EASA considering first and foremost the safety of the European citizens but also being mindful of the effects on all stakeholders.

The legal basis, the resolution of comments and the final versions of each document are referenced in the original publications on the EASA website.

The types of operations that the Category Enhanced aircraft will perform correspond to the highest operational risk to third parties and/or to passenger transport for remuneration. For this reason, the most stringent system safety objectives are assigned regardless of the number of occupants. This SC applies to VCA with a pilot on board, with a Maximum Take Off Mass of up to 5700kg and up to 9 passengers. The focus is on VFR-Day operations in urban and non-urban environments, and for flights over water, if applicable. Furthermore, it is compatible with various degrees of automation, as well as a future extension of airworthiness criteria to consider the evolution of autonomous operations.

The MOC content has been updated to reflect some of the changes introduced with the latest publication of requirements. The changes are listed under the "Revised Paragraph" chapter and include:

—             The increase of the maximum certified take-off mass to 5700 kg

—             Introducing the term "VCA" to replace "VTOL" following Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1111

—             “EASA” changed to "the Agency", to support easier adoption of the content

—             Corrections regarding text clarity and spelling