The European Commission today published the rules for Operational Suitability Data (OSD). The OSD will ensure that certain data, necessary for safe operations of aircraft, is available to and used by the operators. This data is considered specific to an aircraft type and must therefore be produced by the designer of that type. It consists of:
- the minimum syllabus of pilot type rating training;
- the aircraft reference data to support the qualification of simulators;
- the minimum syllabus of maintenance certifying staff type rating training;
- type specific data for cabin crew; and
- the master minimum equipment list (MMEL);
The operational suitability data proposed by the designer will be approved by the EASA along with the airworthiness certification. Once approved, the operational suitability data must be used by operators and training organisations when establishing their customised training courses and MEL.
The OSD is expected to contribute to closing the gap between airworthiness and operations.
(see Regulation (EU) No 69/2014, No 70/2014 and No 71/2014)