A Certificate of Airworthiness (CofA) confirms that an aircraft complies with the applicable airworthiness requirements and is in a condition for safe operation. Except where otherwise permitted by the regulations, every aircraft registered in Gibraltar must hold a valid Certificate of Airworthiness before it may be operated.
Throughout the operational life of the aircraft, the owner or operator remains responsible for ensuring that the aircraft continues to be maintained in an airworthy condition and complies with all applicable regulatory requirements.
The validity of a Certificate of Airworthiness is determined by the continuing airworthiness management arrangements established by the owner or operator. Depending on the level of continuing airworthiness support, Certificates of Airworthiness may be issued with a validity of 12, 24 or 36 months, in accordance with GCAA requirements.
| Validity | Eligibility |
| 12 Months | Standard validity. Subject to an annual airworthiness inspection and renewal by the GCAA. |
| 24 Months | Available where the owner or operator has a minimum 12-month contract with an acceptable Continuing Airworthiness Management Organisation (CAMO). |
| 36 Months | Available when continuing airworthiness is managed by a GCAA-approved CAMO under CAR CAMO. This optional approval is available for aircraft operated under CAR OPS 2A/H. |