Defence aviation safety goes global

The next stage in a 20 year drive for excellence in Defence aviation safety begins tomorrow with the new Defence Aviation Safety Regulation (DASR).

The new regulation brings Australia into alignment with the European Military Airworthiness Requirements, providing a common baseline with more than 30 other countries.

Air Marshal Leo Davies, the Chief of Air Force, said the DASR will replace the current system which has evolved over twenty years and is unique to Australia.

“The current regulations have served us well, but it is no longer efficient or desirable to maintain an independent system,” Air Marshal Davies said.

“The European Military Airworthiness Requirements are quickly becoming a global safety standard and are recognised as global best practice. This will bring benefits and enhance military aviation safety into the future.”

Air Commodore James Hood from the Defence Aviation Safety Authority said the decision to migrate to the European convention was made after careful consideration.

“We have been working with Defence and Industry organisations for three years to make sure we’ve got the DASR right. I am thrilled that major Australian industry will be involved in phase one tomorrow, including Boeing, Airbus Group, QinetiQ, Raytheon Australia, BAE Systems Australia, Pilatus, Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman,” Air Commodore Hood said.

“The new DASR are less prescriptive than the current regulation, offering higher levels of safety assurance at lower cost.

“Benefits of the transition will include increased efficiencies of global supply chains and maintenance options; employing ‘blended workforces’ on Defence and civilian aircraft and improve recognition of the approvals and certifications provided by other military and civilian airworthiness authorities.

"The common convention also allows commercial organisations to pursue innovation across the Defence and civil aviation sectors, which ultimately strengthens the aviation industry in Australia.

"The new DASR regulation will also improve the freedom of decision for Commanders, required for military operations.”

Implementation is occurring in two phases, with some organisations migrating tomorrow, with minimal impact to existing management plans, contracts and organisational structures.

Having locked in the current level of safety under phase one, organisations can then decide when to exploit the flexibility and efficiencies that DASR offer, depending on particular circumstances.