In Russia, it was proposed to transfer the certification of light aircraft to self-regulatory organizations

Russian deputies and the Association of Small Aviation Enterprises (MalAP) have proposed transferring the functions of certification of light aircraft to self-regulatory organizations. The authors of the initiative are confident that this will reduce costs and revive the small aviation market, which has virtually stalled due to the strict requirements of Rosaviatsiya.

Currently, in order to obtain a commercial operator certificate, a company must maintain a staff of thirty employees and invest tens of millions of rubles. Such conditions are unaffordable for owners of small aircraft, so many operate illegally. As a result, in 2024 alone, the number of accidents involving light aircraft in Russia has doubled to 12 cases, in which 27 people died.

According to MalAP's plan, a self-regulatory organization could independently confirm the airworthiness of aircraft, including sports and historical ones, as well as allow pilots to engage in commercial activities.

The initiative was supported in the State Duma. Oleg Leonov, Deputy Chairman of the relevant committee, stated that the current rules create a "black market" for services. He recalled that the Ministry of Transport promised a simplified regime for small airlines five years ago, but there have been no changes so far. Now, deputies are preparing a bill on self-regulation in the air taxi segment, which should bypass the strict Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR).

The Ministry of Transport recognizes the importance of developing small aviation, especially for the transport accessibility of regions, but emphasizes that the main goal of regulation is passenger safety. The agency points out that the increase in accidents indicates the need to maintain state control, rather than weaken it.

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