EASA grants first approval to design or production organization for air traffic management equipment
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has granted, for the first time, approval as a Design or Production Organization (DPO) for equipment used in air traffic management and air navigation services (ATM/ANS). This measure represents a significant step toward the harmonization and modernization of the air traffic system in Europe.
The Dutch company Micro Elektronische Producten B.V. (MEP), specialized in air-ground communication systems for air traffic control, was the first to receive this approval, which is valid across the European Union market. According to EASA, this unique approval will facilitate the adoption of safe and interoperable solutions at the continental level.
“This approval is the first step towards a more modern and harmonized ATM network in Europe,” said Jesper Rasmussen, EASA's Director of Flight Standards. “Europe is strong in the production of ATM equipment, and this new approval system makes it easier for service providers to adopt solutions that have already been proven in real operations. It also drives innovation, as approved organizations can improve existing solutions without requiring a new full certification,” he added.
The recognition comes as part of the new European regulation on conformity assessment for ATM/ANS equipment, specifically in compliance with Regulations (EU) 2023/1769 and 2023/1768. According to EASA, the approval grants organizations specific privileges, such as certifying certain equipment, classifying changes as "major" or "minor," and issuing design compliance declarations or release forms valid for installation by air navigation service providers (ANSPs).
The verification process, conducted by the EASA team over the past twelve months, successfully concluded for MEP. In the words of MEP’s CEO, Werner van Eck, “I am very happy that MEP is the first company to receive the DPO approval. It is the result and recognition of the hard work of our team and the great support we have received from EASA over the past year.”
The agency highlights that this approval also reduces the administrative burden for ANSPs, who will be able to rely more directly on the work carried out by DPO organizations when making changes to their systems.
Among the key elements of the new regulatory framework are the creation of a single source of technical specifications and certifications valid across the EU, as well as a simplified conformity procedure for manufacturers. According to EASA, these changes were designed to improve cost-efficiency, reduce implementation issues, and maintain high safety and innovation standards in the European air traffic industry.
Comentarios
Para comentar, debés estar registrado
Por favor, iniciá sesión