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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Required Onboard Documentation for Domestic Flights

This section provides an overview of the essential documents that must be carried on board an aircraft during flights within Australian airspace, as outlined by the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR). Adherence to these requirements ensures both regulatory compliance and operational safety.

Required Documents for All Domestic Flights

According to the CASR and detailed in section 3.01 of the proposed Part 121 MOS, the following documents are mandatory for all flights that do not begin or end outside Australian territory:

  • Aircraft Flight Manual Instructions: This manual provides critical operational instructions specific to the aircraft model.

  • Flight Technical Log or Maintenance Release:

    • Flight Technical Log: A detailed log of the aircraft’s technical status.
    • Maintenance Release: Applicable if Part 42 of CASR does not apply, it certifies the aircraft is fit for flight.

  • Minimum Equipment List (MEL): A list specifying the minimum equipment required for safe operation of the aircraft.

  • Operational Flight Plan: A comprehensive plan detailing the intended flight operation, including route and fuel requirements.

  • Journey Log: A record documenting the flight’s progress, including details such as times and fuel usage.

  • Authorised Aeronautical Information: Essential navigational data obtained from official aeronautical publications.

  • Weight and Balance Documents: Documentation detailing the aircraft’s load, ensuring it is within operational limits for safe flight.

Additional Documentation Requirements

While the above documents are universally required, additional documentation may be necessary under other CASR regulations or related legislation. Some examples include:

  • Carriage of Dangerous Goods: Compliance with Part 92 of CASR.
  • Biosecurity Measures: As mandated by the Biosecurity Act 2015.

Provisions for Alternative Documentation

In certain scenarios, alternative documents may be used in place of standard manuals or checklists, provided they meet specific criteria:

  • Substitute for Aircraft Flight Manual: An alternative must include all necessary operational information and not contradict the original flight manual’s instructions.

  • Replacement Checklists: Alternative checklists for normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures may be utilized if they contain identical information.

Document Maintenance

For passenger transport operations, maintaining an updated passenger list is mandatory per paragraph 121.100(a) of CASR.

These document requirements are derived from a proposed regulation and may change following further regulatory consultation and approval. For comprehensive and current information, refer to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) legislation.

By maintaining these documents, operators ensure compliance with legal standards and safety protocols essential for domestic flights within Australian airspace.