Design Organisation Approval
DOASection 05: Delegation & Roles
Definition
An EASA approval granted under Part 21, Subpart J, to an organisation that has demonstrated its capability to design or modify aeronautical products in compliance with applicable airworthiness requirements. The DOA holder is granted privileges to approve certain design data without direct EASA involvement, including approval of minor changes (under Part 21.A.95) and minor repairs (under Part 21.A.431B). For major changes and major type certificate activities, the DOA prepares compliance data and its CVEs verify compliance, but EASA retains final type certificate approval authority.
Where This Shows Up
The DOA is the primary mechanism by which EASA delegates design approval authority to industry. Unlike the FAA system where DERs or ODA unit members make findings of compliance as FAA representatives, the DOA system places greater emphasis on organizational capability and the internal compliance verification process. The DOA must maintain a Design Assurance System (DAS) and appoint a Head of Design Office.
Primary Sources
EASA implementing rules establishing the requirements for Design Organisation Approval, including privileges, obligations, and oversight.
EASA guidance material for DOA holders covering the Design Assurance System, compliance verification, and internal processes.
Artifacts Produced
The document describing the DOA's design assurance system, organizational structure, procedures for compliance verification, and responsibilities. Equivalent to the ODA Procedures Manual.
The formal application form for Design Organisation Approval.
Across Jurisdictions
Part 21, Subpart J
EASA issues DOA to organisations demonstrating adequate design capability and a functioning Design Assurance System. Privileges include approval of minor changes and repairs, and classification of changes and repairs.
The FAA equivalent for organizational design delegation is the ODA with design-related authorized functions.
FAA ODA can combine design and manufacturing functions. EASA separates design (DOA) from production (POA). The DOA's Design Assurance System concept is more prescriptive than the ODA procedures manual framework.
Related Terms
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