EASA SD SD-2026-01: Inadequate Protection of SBAS-Based Instrument Approach Procedures

What to do

Air Traffic Services providers must assess risks and implement mitigation measures within 56 calendar days after 20 August 2026 or apply default mitigations if no assessment is done. Flight Procedure Design providers must adjust SBAS APV-I and SBAS CAT I design criteria according to one of the specified options until ICAO updates the standards. Both providers must report actions taken to EASA within 56 calendar days after the effective date.

Summary

EASA Safety Directive 2026-01 addresses the inadequate obstacle clearance protection in Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) based instrument approach procedures, specifically those using LPV minima. This directive affects Flight Procedure Design providers and Air Traffic Services providers holding EASA approvals, focusing on procedures for aircraft eligible to fly RNP APCH operations to LPV minima. It highlights discrepancies in current ICAO design criteria assumptions that may compromise safety during missed approach phases.

What changed

EASA Safety Directive 2026-01 introduces mandatory risk assessments and mitigation measures for affected SBAS-based instrument approach procedures. It requires raising obstacle clearance altitudes or restricting procedures depending on the approach minima lines available and revises design criteria options for Flight Procedure Design providers until ICAO updates the relevant standards. The directive also clarifies conditions under which no mitigation is necessary and provides alternative design methodology options.

Why it matters

This directive is critical for aviation professionals as it ensures the safety of SBAS-based instrument approaches by addressing potential gaps in obstacle clearance protection. Operators and air traffic service providers must reassess and possibly modify approach procedures to maintain compliance and safety. Flight procedure designers must adjust design criteria to prevent unsafe minima, impacting operational approvals and flight safety management.