Luftfahrtordnung

Luftfahrtordnung is a term used to describe the framework of laws and regulations that govern civil aviation in German-speaking countries. It refers to the body of rules enacted by the national legislature and implemented by the civil aviation authority, including the primary aviation act (Luftverkehrsgesetz or Luftfahrtgesetz) and the associated ordinances and administrative regulations commonly called Luftfahrtverordnungen. The exact structure and terminology vary by country, but the aim is to ensure safety, security, and environmental compliance in air transport.

The regulation typically covers licensing and certification of pilots, aircraft, and operators; airworthiness and maintenance requirements; flight operations, crew duties, and training; airspace use, air traffic management, and navigation procedures; aircraft registration and record-keeping; safety management systems and incident reporting; security requirements; and enforcement mechanisms and penalties.

Luftfahrtordnungen are designed to align with international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). In the European context, national frameworks are further shaped by EU aviation regulation and, where applicable, by the work of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The term is used in historical and country-specific contexts, and modern practice typically distinguishes between the general Luftfahrtgesetz/Luftverkehrsgesetz and the subordinate Luftfahrtverordnungen.