| Gippsland Aeronautics is the first Australian aircraft manufacturer to be recognised under an overhaul of Australia’s aviation safety regulations by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) The Deputy Chairman of CASA, Mr James Kimpton AM, and senior CASA officers visited Latrobe Regional Airport on Tuesday 19th of August to present a Production Certificate to Gippsland Aeronautics. The Certificate is the first to be issued by CASA under Part 21 of the Civil Aviation Regulations 1998 following a transition period from the previous regulatory system. The 1998 regulations closely harmonize with international practice particularly the USA. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Transport and Regional Services John Anderson, in a press release, said that aircraft manufacturing was getting a new competitive edge as a result of the overhaul. “Key regulations covering the manufacture of aircraft and aircraft components have been updated and aligned with international best practice” he said. “This means Australia’s manufacturing regulations are now in line with Europe and the US, removing critical hurdles for local companies.” The issue of the Production Certificate indicates that the Gippsland Aeronautics production system aligns with international practice making the Company’s products more readily recognised overseas. In presenting the Production Certificate CASA Deputy Chairman James Kimpton AM said, “The achievement of this milestone by Gippsland Aeronautics reflects a further maturing of their design and manufacturing activity following the award of an Australian Type Certificate for the GA 8 Airvan and the Type Certification of that aircraft in seven overseas countries By any standard this aircraft is showing considerable promise, with over 30 manufactured thus far, over half of which have been exported. The development augers well for the future growth and expansion of Gippsland Aeronautics’ activity to the benefit of their employees, their customers, the Latrobe Valley community and, not least, their shareholders and financiers. The move also benefits Australia’s balance of payments by reducing the need for import into Australia of equivalent aircraft and enhancing the possibility of export. It also benefits the Australian aviation industry by broadening its skills and technology base.” Gippsland Aeronautics Chairman Gary Wight said “This is a significant achievement for Gippsland Aeronautics and is the result of a long period of hard work by the company Quality Assurance and Engineering Departments.” He particularly commended Gippsland Aeronautics QA Manager David Wilbraham, QA Consultants Tony Haines and Bob Scott and Ron Smith and John Niarchos from CASA in bringing this project to fruition. For further information on this press release please contact Marguerite Morgan Sales Coordinator Gippsland Aeronautics PO Box 881 Morwell 3840 AUSTRALIA Tel: +1 3 5172 1200 Fax: +1 3 5172 1201 Email - sales@gippsaero.com |
