A Framework for the Software Aspects of the SafetyCertification for Indigenously Developed AircraftSystems

Safety critical systems need certification from the authorized agency before deploying the system in field. Certification is the final clearance to the system for complying with the project requirements pertaining to functionality, performance and safety. The entire lifecycle process for the application follows a well defined approach to certify the system. This certification approach varies from one industry standard to other. Certification is an activity which is based on evidences to validate the system functionality, performance and safety. In this paper we discuss a certification approach which can be developed into a framework for safety critical aerospace applications. The approach has been proposed based on the groups experience in certifying three safety critical systems i.e. Stall warning/Aircraft interface computer system, Automatic flight control system and Engine indication and crew altering systems. The framework can be used as a reference for the clearance of the safety critical software for civil aircraft systems in the country.