Empowering aviation safety and efficiencies through aerodrome certification

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The dynamic nature of the aviation industry poses significant challenges for States as they strive to achieve their safety, security, and sustainability goals. To assist in this effort, ICAO has introduced an innovative solution in the form of Implementation Packages (iPacks).  Our implementation packages have been designed to address States’ capacity challenges by providing the tools needed for the effective implementation of ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs).

Each iPack provides a comprehensive suite of tools, including expert consultation, guidance materials, and training courses that cover a diverse range of technical subjects. They are designed to assist Member States in developing, updating, and implementing their civil aviation plans. This support might include public health-related measures, facilitation and aviation security, aviation safety, or risk management.


Our aerodrome certification iPack

Developed in partnership with the Airports Council International (ACI), the Aerodrome Certification Implementation Package (iPack) focuses on the development, implementation, and oversight of aerodrome certification program. This iPack provides Civil Aviation Authorities (CAAs) and airport operators with the tools, guidance, and support necessary to develop and oversee an ICAO-compliant aerodrome certification program. It includes relevant documentation, tools, and an online course to facilitate each recipient’s aerodrome certification goals.

A standout feature of this iPack is that an airport operator will receive a peer review of its facilities under the auspices of the Airports Council International’s (ACI) APEX Programme. Based on ICAO standards, national regulations, and ACI best practices, the APEX Programme combines the mandate for regulatory compliance with day-to-day operational needs to maximize operational efficiency and safety and/or security standards. The APEX Reviews are tailored to the individual needs of airports, and APEX Reports propose effective and targeted solutions.

The objective of this iPack is to aid State CAAs and airport operators in addressing the technical challenges associated with the development and implementation of an aerodrome certification program. Notably, the iPack includes the guidance needed to comply with international certification standards and the tools required to build robust regulatory, certification, and oversight processes as appropriate.

Following deployment of this iPack, aerodrome operators and/or CAAs will have the skills and knowledge to:

  • Develop, implement, and/or approve as appropriate the procedures needed to monitor and properly maintain the aerodrome’s physical environment, visual aids, and other infrastructure.
  • Develop, implement, and/or approve as appropriate aerodrome operational procedures and the safety management system.
  • Develop, implement, and/or certify as appropriate the aerodrome manual and other relevant documentation.
  • Develop, implement, and/or approve as appropriate the monitoring processes necessary to ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements for the issuance of the certificate.

The development and implementation of iPacks directly coincide with the Council Aviation Recovery Task Force (CART) Report measures and recommendations. The below four components are designed to support ICAO provisions implementations:

  1. Expert consultation:A dedicated subject matter expert (SME) on aerodrome certification will work with the CAA and/or airport operator(s), providing guidance in their implementation efforts.   services will be provided for a duration of 20 workdays, over a period of three months from the start of the Aerodrome Certification Course delivery. Aerodrome operators who receive an APEX peer review will also benefit from the services of an ACI-recognized aerodrome certification expert.
  2. Training: This iPack is intended for remote deployment, but in-person options are also available. The APEX peer review is conducted either remotely or at the host airport. It is set up to provide 12 participants training for the duration of 40 hours (5 working days.)
  3. Guidance materials: Access to a wide range of guidance materials that address Aerodromes, Aeronautical Information Management, Airport Services Manuals, Aerodrome Design Manual, Airport Planning Manual, and many others. We also provide ACI-developed documents and relevant Annexes. Course materials and SME services are provided in English.
  4. Tools: This iPack contains a specialized toolkit to assist in preparing for the certification of Aerodromes. These tools include a checklist of the Components of an Aerodrome Manual, ACI Aerodrome Certification Guide, and ACI Best Industry Practice SMS Gap Analysis Tool.

The Aerodrome Certification iPack aids State CAAs and airport operators in addressing the technical challenges related to the development and implementation of an aerodrome certification programme.

To learn more about this iPack, State or regional entities and industry organizations can submit this expression of interest online form to receive more information on the benefits and deployment process. For further information, you can visit our dedicated webpage on the official ICAO website or watch the engaging iPacks webinar on ICAO TV.