EASA vs GCAA Part-66: What's the Difference?
If you are studying in the Gulf, you will see 'EASA Part-66' and 'GCAA CAR-66' used almost interchangeably — and for good reason, because they share the same 17-module syllabus. But they are not identical, and one recent change means the difference now matters for how you prepare. Here is what actually differs.
The same syllabus, different authorities
The UAE's GCAA CAR-66 is modelled closely on EASA Part-66, as is the UK CAA Part-66 after the UK left EASA. All three use the same 17 modules, the same A / B1 / B2 / B3 categories, the same 75% pass mark and the same multiple-choice format with three options. Someone who has studied the EASA syllabus is, for the vast majority of the content, ready for the GCAA exam and vice versa.
The big difference: essays
The most important divergence today is the written essay. Historically, EASA and GCAA both examined Modules 7, 9 and 10 with essays. Then EASA's Regulation (EU) 2023/989, effective 12 June 2024, removed the Module 9 and 10 essays — so under current EASA rules, Module 7 is the only essay module (two essays, 40 minutes).
GCAA CAR-66 has not adopted that change: it still examines Modules 7, 9 and 10 by essay (two essays for Module 7, one each for Modules 9 and 10). So a GCAA candidate must still prepare essay answers for Human Factors and Aviation Legislation, while an EASA candidate no longer does.
Multiple-choice counts also shifted
When EASA dropped the Module 9 and 10 essays, it added multiple-choice questions to compensate — Module 10, for example, moved from 40 to 44 questions. If you study from older material, double-check the current question count for the authority and category you are sitting.
What this means for you
- Studying for GCAA? Prepare essay technique for Modules 7, 9 and 10.
- Studying for EASA (post-June 2024)? Only Module 7 needs essay practice; Modules 9 and 10 are multiple-choice only.
- The multiple-choice knowledge is essentially common to all three authorities — your notes, quizzes and simulations transfer.
- Always confirm the current exam length and format with your training organisation or the authority before exam day.
One platform for both
Certify66 is built for EASA, GCAA and UK CAA candidates. The multiple-choice banks, notes, mind maps and simulations serve all three, and the essay banks are labelled by authority — including GCAA essay practice for Modules 9 and 10 — so you always study for the exam you are actually sitting.
Study Part-66 the smart way
Notes, mind maps, interactive simulations, question banks and timed mock exams.