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Showing posts from July, 2025

Understanding DO 178C (Safety critical avionics software)

DO-178C (Document for Operational) What Is DO-178C? DO-178C , officially titled “Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification,” is a set of guidelines published by RTCA (U.S.) and EUROCAE (Europe). It provides a rigorous framework to plan, develop, test, and certify software used in aircraft systems , ensuring that the software is both safe and compliant with regulatory requirements. It is widely accepted by FAA , EASA , and other aviation authorities worldwide. Why DO-178C Is Important Airborne software can impact human lives . Whether it’s controlling engine thrust, displaying flight routes, or automating cabin pressure, a software error could have catastrophic consequences . DO-178C ensures: Safety-critical systems behave predictably Software is free from unintended behavior Traceability exists between requirements, code, and tests Key Principles of DO-178C 1. Software Levels (DAL – Design Assurance Levels) The stringency of testing and proce...