A couple of days ago EASA released a new document outlining a long list of "Standard Changes" - changes that can be made to certificated GA aircraft without the need for an STC. The list includes some rather amazing things: - COM Radios - NAV Radios - Moving map displays - Audio panels - Lighting - ELTs The gear still has to be approved by TSO or equivalent, but there is no type-specific approval required. Here's a write up by AIN: https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-...ama-praises-easas-streamlined-process-repairs Here's the actual EASA document: http://easa.europa.eu/system/files/dfu/Annex IV to EDD 2015-016-R.pdf This is a big (first) step. They still require a mechanic to return the aircraft to service - even for lightbulb changes - but it heading in the right direction. Hopefully the next thing to happen will be a new means of approval based on a recently completed ASTM standard that replaces the expensive verification processes referenced by the TSOs with a much simpler pragmatic testing regimen. This could open the door to approval of systems currently sold into the Experimental and Light Sport markets - a huge step forward for GA modernization.
It looks like this applies mostly to VFR -only unpressurized type aircraft. It still appears that an STC would be required to install virtually any communication or navigation radio for any aircraft operating IFR.
Yeah, it's weak tea compared to what most of us are looking for - IFR capable EFISs and autopilots. Hopefully it's a test: try it for a few years and if airplanes don't start raining down on people, expand it to more capable / critical systems. That seems to be the approach favored by the FAA in all things - baby steps.
