Rules Prescribe Minimum Safety Standards
The Civil Aviation Rules, which prescribe the minimum safety standards required for every aspect of aviation, are made by the Minister of Transport. The CAA develops, and drafts these standards in consultation with the aviation community.
The highest standards are required to ensure the protection of fare-paying passengers on airline operations. Lesser standards apply to operations with lower risk, such as non-commercial operations.
The Rules are presented in Parts, numbered according to international convention. They are supported by Advisory Circulars that describe options for meeting the standards set within the Rules.
The Rules continually evolve in response to changes in the aviation environment, technology, and experience. The Director can also make emergency Rules and may require certain immediate actions in some circumstances.
Quick Links
- Civil Aviation in New Zealand
- A Controlled Civil Aviation System
- The CAA is a Crown Entity
- Shared Responsibility for Safety
- Internationally Recognised
- Rules Prescribe Minimum Safety Standards
- Entry via Aviation Documents
- 100% Compliance With the Rules
- Risk to Safety Assessed
- Aircraft and Personnel are Checked Regularly
- Learning from Accidents and Incidents
- Exit from the System
- Analysing Safety Trends
- Support, Safety Education and Advice
- Robust, Responsive Civil Aviation System

