3. Certification against lightning strikes

3.1 Aeronautical standards

In Europe, aeronautical standards are set by the EASA (European Aviation Safety Agency). In the USA, the FAA (Federal Aviation Agency) produces and approves the standards applied to aircraft authorized to fly in North American skies. Each state is, of course, sovereign in creating, approving or modifying certification standards for aircraft flying over its territory. However, in view of the geographically extensive operability of air transport and the safety requirements imposed, aeronautical standards are harmonized between Europe and the USA and applied worldwide.

The standards set out general principles (e.g.: "an aircraft must be able to withstand the consequences of a lightning strike without suffering damage to flight safety..."),...