AMC M.A.301(b) Continuing airworthiness tasks    

CAA ORS9 Decision No. 1

1. The operator should have a system to ensure that all defects affecting the safe operation of the aircraft are rectified within the limits prescribed by the approved minimum equipment list (MEL), configuration deviation list (CDL) or maintenance data, as appropriate. Also that such defect rectification cannot be postponed unless agreed by the operator and in accordance with a procedure approved by the CAA.

2. When deferring or carrying forward a defect rectification, the cumulative effect of a number of deferred or carried forward defects on a given aircraft and any restrictions contained in the MEL should be considered. Whenever possible, deferred defect rectification should be made known to the pilot/flight crew prior to their arrival at the aircraft.

3. In the case of  aircraft  used  by  air  carriers  licensed  in  accordance  with  Regulation  (EC)  No 1008/2008 and of complex motor-powered aircraft, a system of assessment should be in operation to support the continuing airworthiness of an aircraft and to provide a continuous analysis of the effectiveness of the CAMO defect control system in use.

The system should provide for:

(a) significant incidents and defects: monitor incidents and defects that have occurred in flight and defects found during maintenance and overhaul, highlighting any that appear significant in their own right.

(b) repetitive incidents and defects: monitor on a continuous basis defects occurring in flight and defects found during maintenance and overhaul, highlighting any that are repetitive.

(c) deferred and carried forward defects: Monitor on a continuous basis deferred and carried forward defects. Deferred defects are defined as those defects reported in operational service which are deferred for later rectification. Carried forward defects are defined as those defects arising during maintenance which are carried forward for rectification at a later maintenance input.

(d) unscheduled removals and system performance: analyse unscheduled component removals and the performance of aircraft systems for use as part of the maintenance programme efficiency.