Master Your Obligations Under the Civil Aviation Act with NWA Advisory Services
Empowering Part 119 Key Personnel - Chief Executive Officer
As a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of an Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) holder, your role as Part 119 key personnel carries significant accountability for ensuring the safety and compliance of aviation operations. At NW Advisory Services (nwadvisory.com.au), we recognise that understanding and fulfilling your obligations under the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (Cth) and Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASRs) is critical to leading with confidence and protecting your organisation’s operations, reputation, and safety culture.
The CEO’s Critical Role Under Part 119
Under CASR Part 119, the CEO is accountable for ensuring that all operations under the AOC are conducted to the standards required by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Section 28BE of the Civil Aviation Act further mandates that AOC holders, including key personnel like the CEO, take reasonable steps to ensure activities are performed with care and diligence. Your responsibilities include:
✔ Safety and Compliance: Ensuring operations meet Australian and applicable foreign aviation laws.
✔ Resource Management: Allocating resources to support safe operations.
✔ Safety Management System (SMS): Overseeing the development and maintenance of an effective SMS.
✔ Continuous Improvement: Driving enhancements in safety and operational standards.
Failure to meet these obligations can result in severe consequences, including personal liability, reputational damage, or the suspension or cancellation of the AOC, as highlighted in cases like the Monarch Airlines VH-NDU incident (Young, NSW, 1992). Our recent engagements with senior leaders of complex air transport operators demonstrate the need for CEOs to have a clear, actionable understanding of these duties.
The Value of a Tailored Review and Presentation
At NW Advisory Services, we offer a bespoke review and presentation process designed specifically for Part 119 key personnel, particularly CEOs. Our expert-led sessions, delivered in collaboration with Norton White Lawyers (nortonwhite.com), provide you with:
✔ Clarity on Legal Obligations: A deep dive into the Civil Aviation Act, CASRs, and CASA’s regulatory framework, including your specific duties under Section 28BE and Part 119.
✔ Practical Risk Mitigation: Strategies to address gaps in safety systems, resource allocation, and compliance oversight.
✔ Strengthened Safety Culture: Guidance on fostering a proactive safety culture that aligns with your organisation’s values and protects your brand.
✔ Actionable Oversight Tools: Insights to effectively oversee other key personnel, such as the Head of Flying Operations and Safety Manager, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards.
Why Choose NW Advisory Services?
Our collaborative approach combines NW Advisory Services’ strategic expertise with Norton White Lawyers’ unparalleled aviation law experience. Our presentations are not just informative, they are engaging, practical, and tailored to equip CEOs with the knowledge and tools to lead confidently in a complex regulatory environment.
Take the First Step
A tailored review and presentation on your Part 119 obligations is a proactive investment in your leadership and your organisation’s success. Whether you lead a regional operator or a global carrier, understanding and mastering your responsibilities under the Civil Aviation Act is essential for safe, compliant, and sustainable operations.
NW Advisory Services, specialise in regulatory compliance, safety management, and operational optimisation for the Australian Aviation Industry.
Let’s connect and talk about how NW Advisory Services can support your operation’s next steps.
Visit www.nwadvisory.com.au for more information.