EASA Unveils Revision 24 of Air Operations Regulations, Introducing Gyroplane and Flight Data Monitoring Enhancements

EASA Publishes Revision 24 of Air Operations Rules

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has released Revision 24 of the Easy Access Rules for Air Operations (EAR for Air OPS), dated March 2026. This update consolidates three regulatory instruments into a single rulebook and introduces an enhanced online publication format. The new version is available in PDF, machine-readable XML, and a redesigned web format built on the eRules platform. Key changes include improvements to flight data monitoring program effectiveness and the formalization of gyroplane pilot licensing across EU member states.

Consolidation of Regulatory Instruments

Revision 24 integrates regulatory changes finalized in late 2025. The first instrument, Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2025/2293, adopted on November 10, 2025, corrects earlier implementing regulations, including the foundational air operations regulation, Regulation (EU) No 965/2012. This correction addresses requirements for organizations subject to a declaration and rectifies cross-references across six related regulations concerning aircrew, airworthiness, aerodromes, and maintenance.

The second instrument, EASA Executive Director Decision 2025/020/R, issued on December 2, 2025, amends the Acceptable Means of Compliance and Guidance Material (AMC and GM) for Part-ORO (Organization Requirements for Air Operations) and Part-SPA (Special Approvals). This amendment focuses on the management system framework, alternative training and qualification programs (ATQP), and flight data monitoring (FDM) programs, aiming to enhance FDM program effectiveness. FDM requires commercial operators to systematically collect and analyze flight recorder data to identify safety risks before they escalate into incidents.

The third instrument, ED Decision 2025/023/R, issued on December 15, 2025, amends the AMC and GM for Part-Definitions and Part-NCO to support Commission Implementing Regulations (EU) 2025/133 and (EU) 2025/134. This amendment provides clearer guidance on gyroplane pilot training and establishes a defined framework for non-commercial gyroplane operations under visual flight rules, applicable both during the day and at night.

Improvements to Online Publication

EASA has also revamped the online delivery of the EAR for Air OPS. The updated version features permalinks to the latest version of each rule article, allowing external links to resolve to the current text. The interface now includes enhanced filters, improved search capabilities, and responsive layouts for mobile devices. The XML format enables the full ruleset to be machine-readable, facilitating direct integration into compliance databases and local applications without the need for manual transcription.

The eRules platform is designed for continuous updates, meaning Revision 24 will not remain static until the next major publication cycle. EASA plans to implement further changes as new regulatory material is finalized.

Implications for Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Operators

While Revision 24 primarily addresses crewed aviation, including gyroplane licensing and FDM programs, it holds significance for the drone sector for two main reasons. First, the EAR for Air OPS influences the operational environment for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) and urban air mobility frameworks. The management system requirements in Part-ORO are relevant to the structures national authorities use when evaluating drone operator applications, including those seeking BVLOS approvals.

Second, the new XML-format ruleset and permalink architecture allow drone operators and legal teams to monitor regulatory obligations in real time, improving operational efficiency. Recent developments in Poland regarding FPV exemptions illustrate how quickly national authorities can act when the EU framework is clearly documented and accessible.

The EU Remote ID framework follows a similar pattern: regulations are adopted, followed by updates to AMC/GM, and then national implementation. This sequence is now being applied to gyroplane rules, and it is expected that EASA will adopt a similar approach as it expands regulations for electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.

Discussions between FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford and EU officials in January 2026 regarding drone delivery alignment included topics on harmonizing operational standards. The coherent, machine-readable EASA rulesets facilitate smoother transatlantic alignment for operators with approvals in both jurisdictions.

Conclusion

Revision 24 exemplifies EASA’s commitment to regulatory clarity and efficiency. The introduction of permalink architecture addresses previous challenges in citing specific EASA rules, which has been a time-consuming issue for operators. The strengthening of FDM program requirements in Part-ORO is particularly noteworthy, as these standards may eventually influence larger drone operators. Additionally, the clarification of gyroplane licensing is a significant step towards regulatory consistency across EU member states.

The full EAR for Air OPS Revision 24 is available for download from the EASA document library in PDF, online, and XML formats.

All reporting and editorial perspectives are by Haye Kesteloo.