We undertake the preliminary policy work that is required before a rule change can commence.
Throughout this process we consider a wide range of factors, such as New Zealand’s international obligations, aviation safety and security risk, and the costs and benefits of implementing particular measures. This is separate from the operational policies that drive decision making within the CAA.
Once a policy project is complete, the Ministry of Transport might make a recommendation to the Minister of Transport to commence work to amend a Civil Aviation Rule. If the Minister approves this, the project will become a rules project.
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This page is updated monthly to provide progress reports on our current policy projects.
If you have any queries regarding a policy or rule project, please contact us by emailing docket@caa.govt.nz.
| Policy project name | Description and purpose of project | Current status | Next milestone |
| ICAO Alignment | We periodically undertake projects to align the Civil Aviation Rules where possible with ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices. This project includes nine amendments, and has a focus on Part 139 Aerodromes Certification, Operation and Use. | We are currently working on finalising a streamlined version of a Regulatory Impact Assessment for internal approval. | Engage with the Ministry of Transport to seek the Minister’s agreement to add the project to the Rules Programme. |
| Air Navigation Services Regulatory Framework |
The purpose of this project is to review a range of rule parts relating to the provision of air navigation services and associated information, with the aim of putting in place a more modern and performance-based rules framework. As well as looking at Parts 171 (Aeronautical telecommunication Services – Operation and Certification), 172 (Air Traffic Service Organisations Certification) and 65 (Air traffic Services Personnel Licences and ratings), this project will also consider Part 174 (Aviation Meteorological Service Organisations Certification). |
We have recently completed a regulatory framework model. | This is a large project and we expect the policy development phase to take some time. The next stage is to engage with internal subject matter experts on our proposed regulatory framework and risk-based approach. |
|
Upset Prevention Recovery Training (UPRT) |
Building on the initial issue assessment, this project aims to investigate the approach New Zealand should take regarding the implementation of upset prevention and recovery training (UPRT). UPRT is an ICAO requirement aimed at preventing “loss of control” accidents. |
Engaging with other States to determine their approach to UPRT. |
Analyse feedback from other States to help us determine the best approach for New Zealand. |
| Mapping of Part 91 Appendices | The purpose of this project is to identify how best to address an issue with existing civil aviation rules related to how technical standards for navigation and communication equipment are prescribed. |
Currently working with internal subject matter experts (SMEs) on appropriate technology |
Produce a policy options paper. |
| Alternative propulsion systems |
This project is a scan of all Civil Aviation Rules to identify rules that may need to be reviewed or created to support the introduction of alternative propulsion systems (electric aircraft, hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuels) into New Zealand’s civil aviation system. This project is a scoping exercise to understand:
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Engaging with SMEs. | Produce policy options paper. |
