CAR 139 An Operator’s Responsibility

Whilst the topic under discussion is runway incursions, we must all accept that an incursion can occur anywhere airside at our airports be it the runway, manoeuvring areas or apron. To minimise this potential risk, we must accept responsibility for all movements occurring airside be it aircraft, vehicles, ground service equipment or personnel.

How Do We Achieve the Requirements of CAR 139 as Licence Holders?

Induction Training Any person we permit to access airside must receive training in airside safety and security and there should be no exceptions granted to this requirement.

Driver Licencing Programme Anyone that operates a vehicle, or piece of GSE airside, must attend and pass an Airside Driver Licence Course. At most main airports, driver licencing is normally divided into areas – this limits the number of drivers having access to the main runway/taxiway to only those that need access to fulfil their work requirements.

Airside Infringement System/Demerit Points The Driver Licencing System should be actively supported by a demerit system for those that do no follow the agreed protocols – airport operators should actively monitor airside areas to ensure the protocols are followed.

Signage/Visual Aids Airports are required by both ICAO and CAR139 to have adequate signage and visual aids to facilitate the safe and controlled movement of airside operations.

It is our responsibility, as CAR139 Licence Holders, to ensure that all personnel permitted airside understand the meaning of ALL visual aids on the aerodrome including markings, signs and lights

Communications Communication is the most critical factor of airside safety. The majority of incidents occur through human error due to not understanding or not following instructions or procedures. Only use approved radio/telephony. Repeat back all instructions to ATC if they involve movement on, or in, the manoeuvring areas, taxiways or runways. Request clarification if instructions or clearances are unclear.

Documentation Maintain and provide clear current documentation to all required agencies on airside movement protocols and charts. Examples are –Airport layout and limitation charts –Airport manoeuvring area charts –Stand Push Back Protocols –Driver Licence Handbooks

Works on Aerodrome Advise all required parties on the aerodrome of all planned works and required procedures to be followed around the affected area. Issue appropriate NOTAMS and AIP Supplements to ensure all aircraft operators receive adequate information of affected areas or closures. Provide adequate and precise diagrams in all cases.

Lets all continue to work together to ensure New Zealand Airports remain the safest airports in the world. Thank you.