EASA Air Operations Regulation (EU) No 965/2012 Part-SPO (Specialised Operations) applies to any aircraft operation, other than commercial air transport, where the aircraft is used for specialised activities such as agriculture, construction, photography, surveying, observation, patrol and aerial advertisement.
Part-SPO became applicable in the UK from 21 April 2017.
Operators engaged in commercial specialised operations or engaged in non-commercial specialised operations using a complex motor-powered aircraft must submit a declaration to us about their operation. In addition, a commercial operator conducting a high-risk specialised operation must also apply for and obtain an authorisation from us.
The declaration and authorisation will help us to establish and maintain the required oversight programme for Part-SPO aircraft. The programme will be developed based on the nature and complexity of each operation using available data, including that from any past oversight activities.
Who is affected
Operators established or residing in an EASA State who are conducting specialised operations.
What is required from affected operators
Operators will need to be familiar with the EASA Basic Regulation and the Air Operations Regulation. They will also need to comply with the detailed implementing rules in Annex VIII (Part-SPO). In addition, if conducting commercial specialised operations or engaged in non-commercial specialised operations using a complex motor-powered aircraft they will need to comply with Annex III (Part-ORO Organisation Requirements). If an operator needs specific approvals, for example, covering low visibility operations or dangerous goods; they will need to comply with elements of Annex V (Part-SPA).
Affected operators need to understand the rules and ensure they are in compliance.
Making a declaration to the CAA
See our guidance on how to send us your declaration.
What support is available to operators
To help operators understand what is required of them to comply with the new rules a Part-SPO workshop was held at Aviation House, Gatwick, on 12 September 2016. The presentation from the workshop is available for download:
If you have any questions please email SPOWorkshop@caa.co.uk.
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