EU Suspends Russian Aviation Certificates: EASA Restrictive Measures

• The European Union has suspended all certificates issued by EASA to Russian-registered entities or those subject to sanctions.
• EASA has put on hold all investigations into pending certification applications from Russian entities or those subject to sanctions.
• New certification applications from these parties will not be accepted until further notice.
• Russian air carriers are prohibited from operating within the EU territory, except in cases of emergency landing or overflight.

The suspension is in line with Article 3c (4)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, which prohibits providing technical assistance related to aviation goods and technology to Russia or for use in Russia.

In response to Russia's military aggression against Ukraine in February 2022, the European Union adopted a series of restrictive measures across various sectors, including aviation. The EU's actions were taken under Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 and Regulation (EU) 2018/1139. As part of these measures, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has suspended all certificates issued to Russian-registered entities or those subject to sanctions. This decision affects not only products and parts but also organizations and flight simulation training devices. The suspension is in line with Article 3c (4)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 833/2014, which prohibits providing technical assistance related to aviation goods and technology to Russia or for use in Russia.

EASA has also put on hold all investigations into pending certification applications from Russian entities or those subject to sanctions. Furthermore, the agency will not accept new certification applications from these parties until further notice. These measures are aimed at implementing the EU's restrictive policies in the aviation sector.

The EU's actions in the aviation sector are grounded in Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 and Regulation (EU) 2018/1139. Article 3c (4)(a) of Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 prohibits providing technical assistance related to aviation goods and technology to Russia or for use in Russia. This prohibition extends to all entities, including natural persons, legal entities, and bodies located in or subject to sanctions. The EU's restrictive measures are designed to limit the flow of goods and services that could potentially support Russia's military activities.

In addition to these regulations, Article 3d (1) of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014 prohibits Russian air carriers from operating within the EU territory, except in cases of emergency landing or overflight. The competent authorities of Member States may authorize an aircraft to land or take off if they determine it is necessary for safety reasons.

The suspension of Russian aviation certificates by EASA has significant implications for the sector. Aviation undertakings with Russian-registered certificates or connections should review their compliance with the new restrictive measures and assess potential disruptions to their operations, including possible delays in certification processes. The impact on the aviation industry is far-reaching, affecting not only Russian entities but also those operating within the EU territory. As the situation continues to evolve, it is essential for all stakeholders to stay informed about the latest developments and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Aviation undertakings with Russian-registered certificates or connections should review their compliance with the new restrictive measures and assess potential disruptions to their operations, including possible delays in certification processes.

Source: Original reporting via EASA Notice to Stakeholders