13 September 2016
Owners of aircraft in the ELA1 category will no longer be able to use the generic UK Light Aircraft Maintenance Programme (LAMP). Instead, they need to transfer to a Self-Declared Maintenance Programme (SDMP) at the next Airworthiness Review.
The Self-Declared Maintenance Programme (SDMP) is an amendment to the EASA Part M Regulation. It applies to ELA1 aircraft not involved in Commercial Operations. ELA1 aircraft are an aeroplane, sailplane or powered sailplane with a Maximum Take Off Mass (MTOM) less than 1,200kg that is not classified as a complex motor-powered aircraft.
Owners can now choose from a number of different aircraft maintenance programmes. The new regulation introduces two new options to the existing Part M requirements, one of which is the Minimum Inspection Programme (MIP), the other is a programme based on manufacturer’s recommendations.
All programmes shall not be less restrictive than the MIP, must be specific to the aircraft and must include a declaration signed by the owner that they accept full responsibility for the programme’s content.
The transition to MIP or manufacturer’s recommendations for ELA 1 aircraft can take place at any time from now but must be completed by 30 September 2017. The transition shall be completed at the next Airworthiness Review Certificate (ARC) issue between now and 30 September 2017. Owners may however choose to move at any time before the expiry of their current ARC.
ELA2 aircraft will follow at a date to be announced. ELA2 aircraft are defined as:
Helicopters above 1,200kg currently on LAMP
These aircraft are not included in the recent changes to the Part M regulation and Part M Light will not be applicable, therefore the new approach to maintenance programmes cannot be used. Helicopters currently on LAMP are to move to an approved maintenance programme in accordance with Part M, M.A.302 at the next ARC renewal.
