Questions and Answers on the CAA Touch It Once System
Q: Why won't I get instructions anymore/why won't you send the 968 & DFMS?
A: Until now, it has always been necessary for an application form to be submitted to us in order to obtain the avionic and Flight Manual checklist data. The removal of the AD200 form and the publication of Flight Manual data on the CAA website means that applicants can now perform these parts of the process themselves. The aircraft radio licence has always been issued independently from Safety Regulation Group and any queries regarding the license and associated processes should be referred directly to the Directorate of Airspace Policy, Radio Licensing Section.
Telephone Helpline +44 (0)207 453 6555
Email radio.licensing@caa.co.uk
Q: Why won't you provide a counter service for renewals like my local Regional Office?
A: Whilst we recognise that some organisations have in the past preferred to visit their local Regional Office in person, unfortunately the Applications and Approvals Department cannot operate the same system as we are handling all CofA renewals for many thousands of aircraft currently on the UK register. However, we will still aim to meet our service standard targets.
Q: Why can’t I complete my application and pay the fee on line?
A: The CAA has planned e-Business initiatives to implement systems for this process in the future, but they are not available yet. For further information on the CAA's e-Business objectives, please refer to the document CAA ERMS - Implications for the Aviation Industry and Community.
Q: What are the benefits of the Touch It Once system?
A: You can declare your Flight Manual standard, pay for your certificate and recommend at your convenience and in a single transaction. This means you don't have to ask us for the information or interact with us twice to facilitate your renewal, making it simpler for you and helping us to maintain our service standards.
Q: Will I still be able to renew my certificate and obtain an ARC from my local Regional Office?
A: No, the Regional Offices will no longer be able to provide this service, the Applications and Approvals Department will be the single point of contact for your renewal and will issue all renewed Certificates of Airworthiness from now on.
Q: Can you email my new CofA and ARC to me?
A: At present the original CofA must still be placed on board the aircraft, in accordance with the ANO Schedule 10. The original CofA is defined as the hard copy despatched by us to the owner/operator. In the future, as part of the CAA’s implementation of e-Business, it is likely that an electronic authorisation method will be established with scanned signatories appearing on our documents. In the meantime, you can arrange for collection or special delivery of your certificates if you wish but at your own cost. For further information on the CAA's e-Business objectives, please refer to the document CAA ERMS - Implications for the Aviation Industry and Community.
Q: Why can’t you tell me about the avionics that are installed in my aircraft like before?
A: With the introduction of the new Touch it Once online service for Certificate of Airworthiness renewal, the completion of the form AC968 is no longer a requirement and reference to this form has now been removed.
The radio declaration form AC968 was used at CofA Renewal once every 3 years to update licensing records for Radio Licensing purposes. With an annual ARC and the Touch it Once online system it has been decided to separate radio station declarations from continuing airworthiness.
Any queries related to the WT Act Radio Licence should be addressed to the Directorate of Airspace Policy at radio.licensing@caa.co.uk. or via the web at http://www.caa.co.uk/radiolicensing. All amendments to the Radio Licence should be submitted in writing to Radio Licensing.
Owners are reminded that all radio equipment fitted to the aircraft should be approved and that the installation of new equipment should be approved by modification. Queries related to modification approval and installation should be referred to your local CAA Regional Office.
Q: How far can I anticipate my renewal?
A: Under national rules the maximum anticipation period allowable is 60 days, but for EASA aircraft, the CAA will accept declarations submitted up to 90 days in advance of the current CofA expiry date with no loss of validity, but the inspection date of the aircraft must be within the 90 or 60-day period. This is to aid all aircraft owners and operators with a smooth transition and a hassle free renewal.
Q: How can I give feedback and comment on this service?
A: You may have already received a form from us to do this, but you can also let us know what you think at AandAfeedback@caa.co.uk