As part of a process to improve the way it handles official transactions with the aviation industry, the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will from today accept more applications online, including secure online payments. UK based aircraft maintenance organisations, for example, can now apply for, or apply for variations to their ‘Part 145’ approval electronically, without any need to submit paper forms.

The new electronic services are intended to initiate a range of improvements to performance and processes across the CAA. These developments will ensure applicants for licences, certificates and approvals, receive a more efficient and consistent service.

Under the new systems, organisations applying for UK CAA issued Part 145 maintenance approvals will be able to submit online documents, such as company expositions, for initial review. The organisations will then be contacted to arrange an audit visit, and any findings following assessment will be sent to the organisation electronically.

National ‘Permit to Fly’ renewals for aircraft such as ex-military types can now also be made online, including secure payment.

Similar online payment options, and other service enhancements, will be rolled out to cover most other applications in the future.