EASA CS-25

Lore & Background

EASA CS-25 was established as a certification specification for large, turbine-powered aeroplanes with a maximum take-off weight exceeding 5,700 kg, as defined in CS 25.1. It sets forth the minimum requirements that must be satisfied for an aircraft to receive a type certificate from EASA. Manufacturers may apply for deviations or Equivalent Safety Findings from CS-25 where necessary. The specifications are classified as 'soft law,' meaning they are not legally binding, which allows EASA to update them directly without requiring a vote from the European Parliament. The entry also lists related EASA certification specifications for other aircraft categories, such as CS-LSA for Light Sport Aeroplanes, CS-VLA for Very Light Aircraft, CS-23 for Normal, Utility, Aerobatic and Commuter Aeroplanes, CS-27 for Small Rotorcraft, and CS-29 for Large Rotorcraft, as well as referencing the analogous Federal Aviation Regulations Part 25 and the term 'Transport category.'

Reader's Guide

EASA CS-25 is significant as the primary certification specification for large turbine-powered aeroplanes within the European regulatory framework. Its status as 'soft law' distinguishes it from binding regulations, enabling EASA to amend the specifications directly and efficiently without parliamentary approval. This flexibility allows the agency to adapt to technological and safety developments more rapidly. The specification's scope—covering aircraft with a maximum take-off weight over 5,700 kg—aligns it with the international 'Transport category' and the U.S. Federal Aviation Regulations Part 25, indicating a harmonized approach to large aircraft certification. The provision for Equivalent Safety Findings acknowledges that strict compliance may not always be possible or optimal, allowing manufacturers to propose alternative means of meeting safety objectives. The entry's inclusion of related CS specifications for smaller aircraft and rotorcraft situates CS-25 within a broader certification ecosystem, underscoring its role as the standard for the largest class of fixed-wing aircraft in European aviation.

Did You Know?

• EASA CS-25 applies to turbine-powered large aeroplanes with a max take-off weight of more than 5,700 kg.
• CS-25 is classified as 'soft law' and is not legally binding.
• EASA can update CS-25 directly without a vote of the European Parliament.