CASA EX11/24 — ATPL(A) Flight Test Standards (Satellite-based Navigation) Exemption 2024

This is a temporary exemption issued by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) that changes how certain pilot flight tests are conducted for Air Transport Pilot Licences (aeroplanes) — known as ATPL(A).

What it does: Normally, pilots seeking an ATPL(A) must pass a flight test that includes assessment against specific competency standards for satellite-based navigation (like GPS systems). This exemption allows certain pilots to skip that specific assessment during their flight test, but only if they take the test in one of three specific flight simulators (Beechcraft King Air 200, Embraer 120 Brasilia, or Fairchild Metro III).

Who it affects:

• Pilots applying for an ATPL(A) who already hold a valid instrument proficiency check for aeroplanes
• Flight examiners conducting these specific flight tests

Why it matters: This appears to be a temporary workaround, likely addressing a shortage of qualified testing capacity or equipment issues. It lets pilots progress with their licences without the usual satellite-navigation assessment, provided they use specific simulators. The exemption automatically expires on 28 February 2027.

Key limitation: This is not a blanket exemption — it only applies to flight tests conducted in the three named simulators, and only for pilots who already have current instrument proficiency checks.