An increasing number of aerodromes are conducting significant aerodrome works following a lull during COVID-19.
What can CASR Part 121 operators do?
Make sure you have established contact with the aerodromes you operate to. This will ensure the aerodrome has a point of contact for providing Method of Work Plans.
Air Transport operators and aerodromes should also maintain regular contact with aerodromes they operate so there is a shared understanding or planned works.
Consider using formal management of change and risk management processes to understand the impacts of changing aerodrome environments on operations. Organisations should then update guidance or company process.
You can engage the aerodrome and other users to establish and agree temporary procedures if necessary. This is especially relevant for organisations where other air transport traffic is operating nearby.
You should make sure flight crew have enough time to conduct appropriate and comprehensive Flight Planning. This includes consideration of the necessary NOTAMS related to aerodrome works.
You should make sure crews are familiar with the aerodrome. This includes layout, ongoing works, and activities that may affect availability of part of the aerodrome. This will support flight crew in understanding the impacts of aerodrome works.
What is CASA doing or has already delivered?
We have updated MOS 139. Updates to MOS 139 include formalising and providing clarity around requirements for aerodrome operators:
- conducting aerodrome works
- developing a method of working plans (MOWP).
MOS 139 includes the requirement for aerodrome operators conducting works to consult all air transport operators using the aerodrome. This covers specific restrictions for carrying out works at controlled and non-controlled aerodromes.
Aerodrome operators must provide air transport operators using the aerodrome and CASA with a copy of the MWOP. Except for urgent works, Aerodrome operators must provide the MWOP 14 days before work commences.
We routinely monitor MOWP submissions and reviews based on the risk presented by the works to ensure they are safety maintained.
CASA supports Airservices Australia in the development and promotion of Aerodrome manoeuvring maps for all major Australian Aerodromes.