FAQ Answer

How will the new rules affect Registered Facilities (PPL training)?

There is no provision for Registered Facilities (for PPL training) in the new European regulations. Under the new rules all training for the grant of all Part-FCL licences and ratings must be provided by an Approved Training Organisation. This will include training for glider and balloon licences. The Part-ORA sections of the “Aircrew Regulation” define a set of requirements for all ATOs, and then additional requirements to be complied with by organisations providing training for commercial licences, type ratings, etc.

Under the EU regulations, training organisations and Registered Facilities that have their principal place of business in an EASA Member State must apply to (or have their approval transferred to) the National Aviation Authority of that State. Any school that has its principal place of business outside the EU will have its approval issued and administered by EASA.

The EU regulations include a transition period in that Registered Facilities that are registered before the implementation of Part-ORA may continue training for the PPL under their existing arrangements up to 8th April 2015. For Registered Facilities with their Principal Place of Business within the UK, the implementation date of Part-ORA is 17th September 2012. For Registered Facilities registered to a Member State but having the Principal Place of Business outside the EU, the implementation date of Part-ORA is 8th April 2012. Any new training facility set up after these dates must become an Approved Training Organisation before commencing any training.

Any flying training school that is located outside the EU was transferred to EASA’s oversight in April 2012. These schools should obtain advice from EASA concerning transition arrangements.