EASA drafts rule requiring take-off performance monitoring from 2033

New-build aircraft would need take-off performance monitoring systems from 2033, under a draft regulation from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. The rule is expected to take effect late this year or in early 2027, with a six-year grace period. That reflects the difficulty some manufacturers have had getting runway-overrun awareness systems into service.

Take-off performance monitoring has been pursued for years. The aim is to cut the risk of wrong data, such as an incorrect weight or runway distance, feeding into take-off speed and thrust calculations. EASA issued a formal opinion on the proposal after inviting comments last year.

Up to three functions are set out in the draft, labelled F1, F2 and F3. F1 would check the performance parameters entered before departure. F2 would warn of errors in the aircraft's position before take-off. F3, described as the most complex, would supervise the take-off in real time.

F1 and F2 would be required on new large aircraft designs. F3 would be mandated on some large models, but not on regional turboprops or small business jets.

Several manufacturers and other organisations argued during consultation that no industry standard exists for such a system, including minimum operational performance requirements. EASA acknowledges the concern. Developing a system that later fails to meet an eventual standard creates risk for industry, the agency notes.

EASA agrees a standard could be beneficial and says it is working with the relevant groups. A draft standard already produced is not fully aligned with its expectations, it adds, and an earlier attempt to develop one was unsuccessful.