BGA Inspector Information

This webpage describes the experience requirements to qualify for and maintain a BGA inspector rating and how to qualify for and maintain a Part-66L licence.

The BGA Airworthiness Exposition details the certifying staff and maintenance requirements that define the BGA Inspector authorisation.

The owner is responsible for the airworthiness of their aircraft. As described in the BGA Airworthiness Exposition, other than ‘Pilot/Owner Maintenance’, work carried out on aircraft under the control of the BGA airworthiness system is to be certified by an appropriately authorised BGA Inspector.

BGA inspectors are a highly valued and important part of UK gliding. Their experience and skills are regularly relied on by gliding clubs and private owners. BGA authorised inspectors are required to understand and comply with the applicable airworthiness and maintenance requirements, including the BGA Airworthiness Exposition and the AMP.

UK continuing airworthiness regulation requires BGA inspectors to hold a UK Part-66 licence with the correct category to certify Part-21 sailplanes, powered sailplanes, TMGs and aeroplanes. A UK Part 66 licence is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.

BGA Airworthiness

The BGA airworthiness and maintenance webpages are available here.

Insurance

Inspectors are responsible for their own actions when utilising the privileges of a BGA maintenance authorisation. Inspectors who operate commercially are advised to hold appropriate insurance. An insurance broker can advise.

Operating costs

Inspectors are advised to at least cover their ‘out of pocket’ expenses (including addition or renewal of qualifications) through charges made for their work or through an arrangement with the gliding club that they support.

Standards, conduct and BGA policies

Good quality work including compliance with the relevant requirements is a fundamental element of airworthiness. All inspectors are encouraged to maintain high standards. Non-compliance is normally identified through the quality system. Using ‘just culture’ principles, where the aim is to learn and improve rather than blame, the BGA welcomes reporting of evidence of non-compliance or poor standards. The BGA does not get involved with commercial or contractual matters between owners and inspectors.

Where non-compliance or an unacceptable standard of work has been identified, the BGA priorities are to ensure the safety of any aircraft involved, and to offer support and guidance within measures taken to ensure compliance and appropriate standards.

Inappropriate or discriminatory conduct, which includes bullying, racist, homophobic, sexist or other inappropriate comment, banter or action is unacceptable. Please refer to the BGA policies.