CS FCD.410 Difference levels -- General

• ED Decision 2021/012/R found in: CS-FCD Issue 2 - Flight Crew Data (Jun 2023)

CS FCD.410 Difference levels — General ED Decision 2021/012/R (a) Difference levels are used to identify the extent of difference between a base and a candidate aircraft with reference to the elements described in the DR tables. These levels are proportionate to the differences between a base and a candidate aircraft. A range of five difference levels in order of increasing requirements, identified as A through E, are each specified for training, checking, and currency. (b) Difference levels apply when a difference with the potential to affect flight safety exists between a base and a candidate aircraft. Differences may also affect the knowledge, skills, or abilities required from a pilot. If no differences exist, or if differences exist but do not affect flight safety, or if differences exist but do not affect knowledge, skills, or abilities, then difference levels are neither assigned nor applicable to pilot qualification. When difference levels apply, each level is based on a scale of differences related to design features, systems, or manoeuvres. In assessing the effects of differences, both flight characteristics and procedures are considered since flight characteristics address handling qualities and performance, while procedures include normal, non-normal and emergency items. (c) Levels for training, checking, and currency are assigned independently, but are linked depending on the differences between a base and a candidate aircraft. Training at level E normally identifies that the candidate aircraft is a different type to the base aircraft. [Issue No: FCD/2]