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Audit and Inspection Process

The Civil Aviation Authority carries out an audit/inspection oversight program which is conducted pursuant to subsection 8 (2) (c) of the Civil Aviation Act and Article 142 of the AN (OT) O. To maintain overall effectiveness of the audit or inspection activity, our approach to each organization is one of transparency, with a high degree of professionalism, using experience, skills and communication as essential ingredients.

The Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is responsible for the development of audit and inspection policy and procedures. The respective unit director/manager, through the DGCA, is responsible for the management of the program, while inspectors receive the authority to conduct inspections through delegation of authority issued by the DGCA.

The type of audit is determined by the circumstances under which the audit is convened and includes the following:

1. Approval or certification audit;
2. routine compliance audit; and
3. special-purpose audit.

Checklists are used throughout the audit or inspection process. This provides a systematic approach for the conduct of the inspection and is designed to identify specific items for review and make reference to the applicable regulatory requirements.

All audits and inspections are carried out in accordance with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Cayman Islands Audit Policy and Procedure Manual. The CAACI inspector's role is to attempt to resolve immediately with the airport operator any safety concern to ensure safety is not compromised. If efforts for corrective action are not successful, the DGCA is then to be provided with the necessary documentation to generate a decision and notify the aviation industry.

Both audits and inspections follow the same process as specified in the Audit Policy and Procedure Manual which consists of:

• Frequency of inspection policy or triggering requirements for special inspections;
  • Formal oversight review at least once every 24 months;
  • After significant events such an accident or serious incident;
  • Evidence of data which gives rise to concerns over serious trends.
• Four distinct audit phases:
  • Preaudit;
    • Formal notification in most cases;
    • Requirement for defined scope;
    • Preparation of detailed checklists to address the National or site specific risk factors.
  • Physical audit;
    • Entry meeting;
    • Physical inspection and interviews;
    • Exit meeting.
  • Post-audit;
    • Specified time for formal report; and
    • Certificate holder obligation to respond to findings with Corrective Action Plan.
  • Audit follow-up

Last Updated: 2009-04-16