Part-ML is EASA's simplified continuing airworthiness regime for light aircraft (up to 2,730 kg, non-complex, non-AOC) — the category covering most training fleets. It allows self-declared maintenance programmes and pilot-owner tasks, reducing overhead compared to full Part-M.
Part-ML is EASA's simplified continuing-airworthiness regime for light aircraft: aeroplanes up to 2,730 kg MTOM, sailplanes and balloons that are not classified as complex and not operated under an AOC — the category that covers most training fleets in Europe. It replaced the heavier Part-M requirements for these aircraft in 2020 with proportionate rules.
The headline simplifications: the aircraft maintenance programme can be self-declared by the owner (or managed by a CAMO/CAO) rather than authority-approved, pilot-owners may perform a defined list of simple maintenance tasks, and the airworthiness review can in some configurations be combined with the annual inspection by an appropriately authorised organisation or person. The obligations remain real — programme compliance, AD tracking, records — but the administrative overhead drops substantially.
Why it matters for flight schools
For flying clubs and schools with piston fleets, Part-ML is the difference between enterprise-grade compliance bureaucracy and a proportionate regime — but the flexibility cuts both ways. A self-declared maintenance programme means the operator owns its adequacy: at the airworthiness review, the reviewer checks the aircraft against the programme the owner declared. Schools that treat the declaration as a one-time formality and never update it as the fleet or usage changes routinely collect findings.
How FlightLogger handles it
FL Maintenance keeps the declared maintenance programme, actual compliance and AD status connected per aircraft — so a Part-ML fleet stays review-ready without the paperwork growing back to Part-M size.
Frequently asked questions
Which aircraft fall under Part-ML?
Aeroplanes up to 2,730 kg MTOM, sailplanes and balloons that are not complex motor-powered aircraft and not operated under an air operator certificate. Most single- and light twin-engine training aircraft qualify.
Can a flight school self-declare its maintenance programme under Part-ML?
Yes — the owner or operator may declare the programme, taking responsibility for its adequacy, or delegate it to a contracted CAMO/CAO. Declared programmes must still incorporate mandatory requirements such as ADs and applicable minimum inspection standards.