21.B.80 Type-certification basis for a type-certificate or restricted type-certificate

1.INTRODUCTION This GM addresses the type-certification basis for a TC or an RTC.

2.APPLICABLE CERTIFICATION SPECIFICATIONS (CSs) (see point 21.B.80(a)) The type-certification basis for a TC or an RTC consists of the airworthiness CSs that were effective on the date of application and were applicable for that certificate. The effectivity date of the initial application may be changed, as per point 21.A.15(f)(2), when the period of validity of an application for a type certificate is exceeded, or it is evident that it will be exceeded, and the applicant requests an extension; see GM 21.A.15(e) and (f). The certification basis is then revised accordingly.

3.ELECT TO COMPLY (see point 21.B.80(a)(1)) It is also possible for an applicant to elect to comply with a CS that entered into force after the date on which the applicant has submitted the application. EASA should assess whether the proposed certification basis is appropriate to ensure that the ‘elect to comply’ proposal includes any other CSs that are ‘directly related’ to one or several of the CSs in it. Directly related CSs are those that are deemed to contribute to the same safety objective by building on each other’s requirements, addressing complementary aspects of the same safety concern, etc. Typically, they are adopted simultaneously with, or prior to, the CSs with which the applicant has elected to comply.

4.EQUIVALENT LEVEL OF SAFETY (see point 21.B.80(a)(2)) In cases in which the applicable CSs cannot be literally complied with, either fully or in part, EASA may accept a suitable alternative which provides an equivalent level of safety through the use of appropriate compensating factors. In cases in which the requirements contain not only objectives but also prescriptive parts, an equivalent level of safety may be accepted if: the objectives are met by designs or features other than those required in the CSs; or suitable compensating factors are proposed.

5.ALTERNATIVE MEANS OF COMPLIANCE (see point 21.B.80(a)(3)) If the intent of the CSs defined in point 21.B.80(a) cannot be met, EASA may accept mitigating factors to the CSs, provided that the safety objective is met. In the case of a TC, the alternative means should provide a demonstration of compliance with the essential requirements for airworthiness laid down in Annex II to Regulation (EU) 2018/1139. In the case of an RTC, the alternative means should provide a sufficient level of safety for the intended use. Note: ‘Alternative means of compliance’ should not be confused with ‘AMC’.

6.SPECIAL CONDITIONS (see point 21.B.75) EASA may also prescribe special conditions in accordance with point 21.B.75. Guidance on special conditions is provided in GM 21.B.75.