British Airways is the first airline in the world to gain European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Part M and Part 145 approvals for both the Boeing 787 and Airbus A380.
Part M means that BA has the required management structure, organisation and procedures in place to manage the maintenance of its new aircraft, keeping them airworthy.
Part 145 signifies that BA has the right facilities, resources and qualified people worldwide to work both of these aircraft types.
Engineering has been working hard for six years to ensure that the airline was ready for the new arrivals and received the EASA approvals as planned, before the aircraft started their introduction to service. Work has included modifying BA’s engineering facilities, stocking all the spare parts required to maintain the aircraft and preparing colleagues for the new technology and ways of working.
A dedicated entry into service team was also created with support from the Civil Aviation Authority.
“Getting these approvals is an example of BA brilliance, engineering excellence and terrific teamwork in action,” said Keith Rose, general manager quality and training services, who led the approvals process.
“There have been tough times for all of us and the 787 and A380 arriving within days of each other made it even tougher but the passion and dedication of everyone involved is what made this achievement possible.”