European Union Aviation Safety Agency
EASASection 01: Organizations & Authorities
Definition
The aviation safety agency of the European Union, headquartered in Cologne, Germany. EASA is responsible for the airworthiness certification of aeronautical products (type certification), the approval of design and production organisations, the development of pan-European aviation safety regulations (Implementing Rules, Certification Specifications, AMC, and GM), and the oversight of EU-wide aviation safety. EASA was established in 2002 and has progressively assumed regulatory responsibilities from national aviation authorities of EU Member States.
Where This Shows Up
EASA operates under the Basic Regulation (currently Regulation (EU) 2018/1139), which defines its competences and establishes the European aviation safety framework. Unlike the FAA (which directly certifies and oversees), EASA performs centralized type certification but shares operational oversight responsibilities with national aviation authorities of Member States.
Primary Sources
The EU regulation establishing EASA and defining its mandate, competences, and governance.
Artifacts Produced
Technical standards adopted by EASA for the airworthiness certification of products (e.g., CS-25 for large aeroplanes).
Non-binding guidance illustrating means to establish compliance with the Basic Regulation and Implementing Rules.
Non-binding explanatory material to help understand the intent and application of regulations.
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