ASTM Revises GA Aircraft Systems, Equipment Standard

The general aviation aircraft committee of ASTM International has revised the standard for systems and equipment aspects of airworthiness and aircraft design in Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 Normal category airplanes. The levels refer to the number of passenger seats in an aircraft—19 or less—and maximum certificated takeoff weight of 19,000 pounds.

The revised standard covers a host of items including electrical systems, manual flight controls, automatic flight controls, flight data and voice recording, and mechanical systems and equipment. According to ASTM, the revision “will allow aircraft manufacturers, suppliers, and regulators to have a clearer understanding on how to show and find compliance to regulations that address unsafe system operating conditions."

“The revised standard will ensure a level playing field for applicants seeking regulatory approval,” said ASTM International member Edward Estagin. “This will also provide further guidance for regulatory authorities.”