ICAO’s extensive safety audit was completed

The International Civil Aviation Organization ICAO audited the Finnish aviation system in early November. The audit covered all flight safety related Annexes to the Convention on International Civil Aviation.

A preliminary report of the findings was given in the state visit's closing meeting on 10 November 2010. RoseMarie Heftberger and her team thanked Trafi for its contribution to the audit and congratulated on the results; Finland will receive a good mark for the implementation of ICAO standards and recommendations. In particular, Heftberger mentioned the good and firm legal basis and the proficiency of the staff.

On the other hand, Trafi needs to further improve its process descriptions, develop the co-ordination and division of responsibilities within the Aviation Sector, and strengthen its role as regulatory authority for search and rescue operations. Some new agreements are needed between Finland, Norway and Sweden on SAR operations and air navigation services. It is also essential to implement the State Safety Programme, which is already under preparation.

The audit was carried out by five auditors using checklists, audit protocols and other tools. It focused on Trafi and the Accident Investigation Board, but visits were also made to aviation companies. All departments in Trafi's Aviation Sector were involved in the audit.

The on-site visit will be followed by the post-audit phase. The audit team is preparing its report until February next year. By the beginning of April 2011, Finland is required to draw up an action programme to resolve the issues brought up in the report. The final report will be ready in August 2011, and will be published both on Trafi's and ICAO's websites. The audit will give a realistic picture of the state of the Finnish aviation system and a good basis for future safety work.


Further information

Finland's USOAP Coordinator Johan Skjäl, tel. 020 618 6115, johan.skjal(at)trafi.fi
Inspector Anna Granfelt, tel. 020 618 6026, anna.granfelt(at)trafi.fi.