Vintage and Classic Aircraft

Historic and Classic aircraft are:

• Non complex aircraft whose: initial design was established before 1.1.1955 and production has been stopped before 1.1.1975;
• Aircraft having a clear historical relevance, related to a participation in a noteworthy historical event; or a major step in the development of aviation; or a major role played into the armed forces of a Member State.

These Aircraft are not governed by EASA regulations but rather by national legislation. The IAA may issue a Certificate of Airworthiness or a Flight Permit to such an aircraft to allow it to fly within this state.  

Persons considering the purchase of an aircraft in this category should contact the Irish Light Aviation Society for information regarding aircraft registration and Flight Permits. More information is also available on Airworthiness Advisory Memorandum AAM 05/11.

Irish Light Aviation Society (ILAS)

ILAS is approved by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) to make recommendations to the IAA for the issue and renewal of Flight Permits for Historic and Classic aircraft. ILAS are responsible for the oversight of all Classic and Historic aircraft under their control. Owners should make an application for a Flight Permit for their aircraft through ILAS.   

ILAS has a panel of approved aircraft inspectors.  These inspectors perform a key role in the safe maintenance of aircraft owned by members of ILAS.  The operations of ILAS are governed by a Procedures Manual agreed with the IAA. They also liaise with the IAA regarding the re-registration of aircraft, the replacement of documentation and modifications carried out on aircraft.

Visiting Ireland

It is IAA policy to allow foreign registered aircraft, without an EASA/ICAO Certificate of Airworthiness, operate in Ireland on a temporary basis. Flight Permits, or equivalent, are only valid for operations within the State of Registration. It is mandatory for foreign registered aircraft operating on a Flight Permit, or equivalent, to obtain permission to operate in Irish Airspace. For information on how to apply for such permission, please see GAM 02/11 

History of ILAS

The Classic Aeroplane & Aerobatic Club of Ireland (CAACI) was founded in 1985 to foster and promote the sport of aerobatics, and the restoration and maintenance of classic and vintage aircraft in Ireland. The Society of Amateur Aircraft Consturctors (SAAC) was founded in 1978 to cater for the needs of a growing number of aviation enthusiasts in Ireland who wanted to build and fly their own aircraft for recreational and educational purposes. ILAS was formed in January 2010 by the amalgamation of SAAC and CAACI.