Request for feedback on the proposed definition of Complex Motor-Powered Aircraft
Proposed Revised Definition of Complex Motor-Powered Aircraft (CMPA)
The current definition of CMPA is focused on conventional fixed-wing and rotorcraft. As technology evolves e.g. Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL), electric, hybrid, and other novel aircraft designs, it is essential for the definition of CMPA to be broad and flexible enough to cover non-conventional and future aircraft types.
The proposal allows for the use of small aircraft to be defined as non-CMPA and used within the General Aviation arena. Whereas the aircraft that are already known and are proposed for commercial use will be classified as CMPA.
New criteria to be added to the current CMPA definition:
“For the purposes of classification as Complex Motor-Powered Aircraft (CMPA), an aircraft, that is of a non-conventional design (not an aeroplane or helicopter) featuring unconventional aerodynamic configurations, such as blended wing bodies, lift and cruise designs, tiltrotor, of other innovative airframe characteristics and meets one or more of the following criteria:
(a) Has a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of more than 2,000 kg.
(b) Is certified to carry more than 2 occupants.
(c) Incorporates advanced or highly automated flight control systems, including fully autonomous or having high-level automation capabilities.
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) retains the discretion to classify any aircraft as CMPA based on an assessment of technological complexity, safety implications, and operational environments, even if not all listed criteria are met."
The CAA is also proposing that the new criteria added to the CMPA definition will be reviewed in 2030, or at a date to be decided. This will enable the CAA to review operational experience and what is happening internationally.
The CAA is currently reviewing the terms used for defining aircraft within the Regulations to include the new AAM technologies. When this review is completed and proposals agreed, further non-conventional design characteristics may need to be added to the new CMPA criteria detailed above.
The CAA is seeking feedback on the proposals outlined above and has the following aims:
- The new criteria to be added to the current CMPA definition
- Review of the new criteria added to the CMPA definition at a future date.