RTCA, Inc.

RTCA

Section 01: Organizations & Authorities

Definition

A private, not-for-profit organization that develops consensus-based recommendations and guidance documents for use in aviation communications, navigation, surveillance, and air traffic management systems. RTCA was originally founded as the Radio Technical Commission for Aeronautics in 1935 and operates as a Federal Advisory Committee to the FAA. Its document outputs (DO- documents) are widely referenced in FAA advisory circulars, TSOs, and certification projects as accepted means of compliance.

Where This Shows Up

RTCA works jointly with EUROCAE (the European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment) on many documents to produce harmonized international guidance. Notable RTCA documents include DO-178C (software), DO-254 (airborne electronic hardware), DO-160 (environmental testing), and DO-326A (airborne security).

Primary Sources

RTCA, Inc. — About RTCA

Overview of RTCA's mission, structure, and role as an FAA advisory committee.

Artifacts Produced

DO- Documents

Consensus-based technical documents developed by RTCA Special Committees for use in aviation certification.

Related Terms

European Organisation for Civil Aviation Equipment (EUROCAE)DO-178C / ED-12C — Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment CertificationDO-254 / ED-80 — Design Assurance Guidance for Airborne Electronic HardwareDO-160 / ED-14 — Environmental Conditions and Test Procedures for Airborne Equipment

Need help navigating certification?

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