UAE Issues First Airworthiness Directive

On Sept. 27, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) released its first Airworthiness Directive (AD).

The AD, UAE-2011-001, applies to Lear Jet 60 model aircraft and requires an inspection for cross connected wires on the forward and aft fire extinguisher container squibs. The AD is the result of a UAE-based operator informing the GCAA of the anomaly.

The 15-year-old agency has been actively encouraging the growth and development of the Emirates’ aerospace market and now joins a handful of national aviation authorities that draft ADs. The presence of a strong domestic regulatory authority will strengthen the Emirati push to enhance its standing as a major competitor in civil aviation maintenance. The recently released GCAA Strategic Plan, 2011-213 outlines growth and opportunities in the nation and across the greater Gulf region.

~~~ posted 11/8/11 ~~~