TLDR - EASA's latest Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) outlines critical guidelines for the accurate and safe use of Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) in the aviation industry. APG stands ready to support your operations and solve any runway analysis or weight and balance data concerns with EASA compliance. Our team is well prepared to assist in obtaining the required data, guiding the testing process, and identifying discrepancies while implementing mitigation measures to address any deviations. Learn More & Get a Quote
Understanding the EASA Safety Information Bulletin
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) recently issued Safety Information Bulletin (SIB) No. 2024-14, addressing the conduct of accuracy tests for Type B Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) applications used for aircraft performance and mass and balance computations. Although the recommendations are not mandatory, they provide essential guidelines to ensure the safety and reliability of EFB applications.
The SIB emphasizes the need for operators to validate that their EFB applications use accurate data derived from the aircraft flight manual (AFM) or other reliable sources. This validation is crucial to meet the performance requirements specified in various EU regulations, ensuring that computations for take-off, landing, and other key performance metrics are precise and reliable.
Key Guidelines for EFB Accuracy Tests
EASA's SIB outlines several key guidelines for conducting accuracy tests on EFB applications. Operators are required to perform these tests under a representative cross-section of conditions, including different runway states, wind conditions, pressure altitudes, and various aircraft configurations.
The guidelines highlight the importance of covering the entire operating envelope of the aircraft, including corner points, routine, and break points. This comprehensive approach ensures that the EFB application provides accurate performance data across all possible scenarios, thereby minimizing the risk of errors that could compromise safety.
The Importance of Accurate Aircraft Performance Data
Accurate aircraft performance data is critical for safe and efficient flight operations. Inaccurate data can lead to incorrect performance calculations, which in turn can result in unsafe take-off and landing procedures, fuel miscalculations, and other operational issues.
By ensuring that EFB applications are validated against reliable data sources and tested under a variety of conditions, operators can significantly reduce the risk of performance errors. This not only enhances safety but also optimizes operational efficiency, leading to better decision-making and resource management.
How to Obtain EASA Validation Reports Through APG
APG specializes in helping operators validate their data through custom validation reports. Our 25+ years of expertise in aircraft performance data allows us to create comprehensive validation methodologies tailored to the specific needs of each operator.
Our custom validation reports ensure that EFB applications meet all EASA guidelines and provide accurate performance data. By leveraging these services, operators can confidently demonstrate compliance with regulatory requirements and enhance the overall safety and reliability of their flight operations.