Airbus secures CASA design approval, expanding its Australian capabilities

Airbus has secured 21.J Civil Design Organisation Approval from Australia’s Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA), marking a significant milestone for its local operations and enhancing its ability to support customers across the country. The approval expands Airbus’ civil design capabilities in Australia and reinforces the company’s commitment to developing sovereign aerospace expertise. The certification empowers Airbus’ Brisbane-based engineering team to independently undertake and approve a broad range of design activities, including structural modifications, repair designs, and the issuance of technical data for a diverse portfolio of aircraft.

Under the CASA approval, Airbus engineers in Australia can now perform design and certification work across aircraft categories ranging from light general aviation platforms to large commercial airliners, as well as both light and heavy helicopters. The approval covers six key engineering disciplines: structures, mechanical systems, electrical systems, instruments, radio systems, and cabin systems.

To achieve the 21.J approval, Airbus demonstrated to CASA its ability to design, certify, and approve modifications and repairs on civil aircraft in accordance with stringent regulatory requirements. Securing the approval without additional limitations or conditions underscores the maturity of Airbus’ design assurance framework and its unwavering commitment to safety and engineering excellence.

Richard Stocker, CASA National Manager Airworthiness and Engineering commented: “This is a great example of industry working collaboratively with CASA on a complex task that provides significant benefit to Airbus operations in Australia. The 21.J approval enables the Airbus team in Australia to approve its own aircraft repair and modification designs and appoint authorised persons within the scope of their organisational privileges. CASA will continue to oversee Airbus’ Australian operations in line with our established procedures.”

Jacques Du Plessis, Head of Operations at Airbus in Australia stated: “Our teams are now able to provide end-to-end, locally delivered engineering solutions right here in Australia, translating into faster turnaround times for customers across the region. This achievement reinforces Airbus’ long-standing commitment to the Australian aviation industry and our dedication to strengthening sovereign aerospace capability. It ensures Airbus remains at the forefront of supporting safe, efficient and innovative flight operations across Australia for decades to come.”

For Airbus, the approval is expected to deliver tangible benefits for customers throughout the region by streamlining engineering support and reducing response times.