Validation

Section 02: Regulatory Vocabulary

Definition

The process by which a civil aviation authority evaluates a product that has already been certified by a foreign authority and determines whether it meets the importing authority's own regulatory requirements. Validation does not repeat the full certification process; instead, it leverages the certification work performed by the exporting authority while the validating authority evaluates areas of concern, differences in requirements, and issues specific to its jurisdiction. The scope and process of validation are typically governed by bilateral agreements (BASAs).

Where This Shows Up

For example, when Airbus (EASA-certified) seeks to operate its aircraft in the United States, the FAA validates the EASA Type Certificate. When Boeing (FAA-certified) seeks to operate in Europe, EASA validates the FAA Type Certificate. Validation involves reviewing the original certification basis, identifying differences, and conducting selective technical evaluations.

Primary Sources

14 CFR ยง 21.29 โ€” Issue of type certificate: import productsFAA

FAA provisions for the validation of foreign type certificates.

EASA Part 21, Section A, Subpart B, 21.A.21 โ€” Type Certificate: foreign productsEASA

EASA provisions for the validation of foreign type certificates.

Related Terms

CertificationAcceptance (Regulatory Acceptance)Bilateral Aviation Safety Agreement (BASA)

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