Pandemic safety challenges
In 2021, a new, more tightly specified system of Targeted Exemptions (TEs) was implemented to enable States to publish temporary differences to ICAO Standards and ensure that continued operations would not be unduly impacted by contingency measures related to travel restrictions. The tightly scoped TE system replaced the COVID-19 Contingency-Related Differences (CCRD) system, which was established at the start of the pandemic.
States were advised that a return to normal compliance with the Standards was necessary; however, where exceptional circumstances persisted, a means to extend exemptions on pilot training, qualification and licensing requirements was provided. While many States did not require TEs to maintain their operations,
74 TEs were published from 23 States. Such TEs can be accessed by visiting the
TE Dashboards.
Considering the increased operational risk from extended periods of low activity and the challenges in conducting proficiency checks, ICAO worked with State and industry experts to update its online guidance and ensure that sufficient mitigative measures were implemented to maintain an acceptable level of safety performance.
At the end of 2021, an additional TE was developed to address challenges among manufacturers in meeting the new 25-hour cockpit voice recording requirement due to supply chain issues caused by the pandemic. This TE was established in time for States to issue the exemption and make this information available to other States, facilitating continued operations by affected operators.
