SAFA Check

[leftseat88]

Hey All,

Has anyone received a SAFA check in Europe? If so, did you have a paper copy of a weight and balance form or did you use an electronic method?

Thanks

[4HolerPoler]

Electronic W&B, Flightplans, Met & NOTAM's are accepted.

[I.R.PIRATE]

Do they expect a W&B sheet/electronic copy for all flights or only 135?

[jr of dallas]

Private or charter no differences: you should have at least weather,notams and W&B

[mutt]

They don't see a difference between private and 135, so I suggest you sign your flight plan, conduct RVSM and fuel checks, no baggage in the cabin, make sure you have a cargo net, accurate baggage weights, clean aircraft, no leaks, any defect written in the logbook, all documents up to date etc etc etc......

Good Luck :)

Mutt

[deefer dog]

There are a number of differences included in SAFA inspector guidelines, depending on whether the aircraft is operated under Annex 6 part 1 or 2.

Strictly speaking there is no requirement for a written or printed W and B under Part 2. The regulations simply state that the aircraft commander is required to satisfy himself that the load ...etc etc. Part 1 does require a copy of the document however.

It may also surprise you to learn that in respect of liferafts, jackets, medical supplies, fire extinguishers etc., if they have an out of date label, it is a bust (actually, a "finding"). However, in the case of Part 2 operators, if no date label is attached to the item they cannot log it as a "finding." Amazing, but fact. It is included in inspector guidance notes.

It is well worth looking up the guidance material that SAFA use. It includes the precise legislation alongside every possible item they may inspect, what they can do and what they can't, and it details when they may inspect an aircraft and when they should not delay it. To delay a departure if passengers are on board they require a very good reason. They are also instructed to avoid discussion with, or disturbing passengers.As it is not possible to compile a load sheet unless the pax are boarded it is likely that they may delay you, in which case you are entitled to request that they cut short any inspection unless they have good reason not to.

Note also that for a SAFA inspection to take place, the inspector must be "current" in his/her training. If he is not current he may not conduct an inspection. He is obliged to advise you of his currency status if asked, and you have every right to request details related to his training.

It's all on the EASA website, but some of it very small print.

Mutt is quite correct about avoiding baggage being spread all over the cabin - they don't like that very much, and they aren't too fond of big oil puddles under the engines.