Consensus Standard
Section 02: Regulatory Vocabulary
Definition
A technical standard developed through a voluntary, open process involving affected stakeholders (industry, regulators, academia) who reach substantial agreement on its content. In aviation, consensus standards from bodies such as ASTM International, SAE International, RTCA, and EUROCAE are used as detailed technical means of compliance. Under the restructured Part 23/CS-23 framework, consensus standards have become the primary repository of detailed technical requirements, replacing prescriptive regulatory text.
Where This Shows Up
The use of consensus standards in aviation certification enables faster updates to technical criteria without the lengthy regulatory rulemaking process. However, their voluntary nature means they only become binding when referenced in regulations or accepted as a means of compliance by the certifying authority.
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Primary Sources
US government policy directing federal agencies to use voluntary consensus standards where practicable.
The restructured Part 23 that relies on consensus standards for detailed technical criteria.
Related Terms
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