A new agreement between ICAO and Airports Council International (ACI) will improve support for aerodrome certification by governments to international standards
ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar (right) and ACI World Director General Luis Felipe de Oliveira signed an agreement on July 27, 2023 to launch the Aerodrome Certification Implementation Package (iPack) of materials for regulators and airport operators.
The agreement, which launched the Aerodrome Certification Implementation Package (iPack) of materials for airport regulators and operators, was signed in Montreal by ICAO Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar and ACI World Director General Luis Philip de Oliveira.
“ICAO has developed this iPack in partnership with Airports Council International to help state civil aviation authorities and airport operators address the technical challenges associated with developing and implementing an aerodrome certification program,” commented the General Secretary Salazar. “The certification of aerodromes by governments in accordance with ICAO standards is key to guaranteeing the safe development of international air services and, consequently, the ability of States to access the sustainable development benefits of the connectivity to the global flight network.
“This agreement is based on the solid and lasting collaboration between both organizations”, commented ICA World Director General, Luis Felipe de Oliveira. “The Aerodrome Certification Implementation Package (iPack) will assist our member airports in the aerodrome certification process through access to training and technical assistance, including the perennial ACI-ICAO APEX programme. We are proud to be one of the first external organizations to partner with ICAO to offer an iPack. The benefits of the resource will extend beyond airports to assist States and the broader aviation ecosystem in its sustainable growth as we continue to serve air travelers and communities around the world."
The iPack includes documentation, tools and an online training course to facilitate each recipient's aerodrome certification goals. A dedicated subject matter expert will also work with civil aviation authorities and airport operators to provide guidance.
In addition, airport operators will receive a peer review of their facilities under the auspices of the ACI Airport Excellence (APEX) Program. Based on ICAO standards, national regulations and ACI best practices, the APEX Program combines the regulatory compliance mandate with daily operational needs to maximize operational efficiency and implementation of safety and security standards.
The physical environment of the aerodrome, the visual aids and other infrastructure, its operating procedures and safety management system, its manual and related documentation, and the aerodrome's compliance with the regulatory requirements for the issuance of the certificate are among the priorities that covers this initiative.