The classification of findings allows the CAA to focus on those findings which affect safety, this then provides a basis which the time scales for a finding to be closed can be defined. For high safety severity findings time for closure will be typically less than 30 days but can be shorter depending on the safety impact.
Safety severity |
Definition |
Example of safety classification
A.3 Airworthiness Directives |
Example of safety classification
B.3 Mass and Balance (M&B) |
High |
The effectiveness of a safety barrier has been significantly reduced. (Level 1 or Level 2 finding with a significantly reduced response time) |
Failure to comply with an Airworthiness Directive within its required timescales. |
An error on the weighing report or schedule that has an effect on the basic M&B index used, that could lead to the aircraft being operated beyond its M&B envelope. |
Moderate |
The effectiveness of a Safety Barrier has been potentially reduced. |
Airworthiness Directive not evaluated and/or controlled (forecasted). But the compliance date has not been exceeded. |
An error on the weighing report or schedule that has a minor effect on the basic M&B index iused, that could not lead to the aircraft being operated beyond its M&B envelope. |
Low |
No direct effect on safety |
Airworthiness Directive complied with, but incorrectly recorded in the continuing airworthiness records. |
An error (typo) on the weighing report or schedule that does not affect the basic M&B index used. |