Exploring Updated Aviation Safety Regulations & Their Implications for Business Flight Operators

The aviation industry is continuously evolving, with safety regulations being a critical aspect of this evolution. For business flight operators, staying abreast of the latest safety regulations is essential to ensure compliance, enhance operational safety, and maintain a competitive edge. This article delves into the latest aviation safety regulations and their implications for business flight operators, providing insights and operational examples.

Key Updates in the 2024 IATA Ground Operations Manual (IGOM)

The main changes introduced in IGOM Edition 13 within the introduction, particularly in section 4.3 on risk assessment, have been significant. Risk assessments have been completed for all procedures outlined in IGOM chapters 1 and 2, with safety-critical procedures now identified for passenger handling and baggage handling. Additionally, risk assessments for chapters 3 and 4 have been re-evaluated, focusing on safety-critical functions. The risk assessment table has been updated to reflect these changes.

Furthermore, the IGOM adoption policy has been revised to provide greater clarity for flight operators and ground handlers regarding variations during the IGOM gap analysis between the IGOM and their company manuals. In Chapter 3, under basic operating requirements for ground support equipment (GSE), the “No Touch Policy” has been reviewed and reworded to enhance understanding and proper positioning of GSE to the aircraft. A new subsection 3.1.4 on fire prevention and protection has been introduced, ensuring that personnel working in GSE operations, including flight operators, are aware of fire hazards and the necessary actions in such events.

Finally, updates have been made in Chapter 4, sections 4.1.1, on actions prior to aircraft arrival, to ensure that all personnel involved in aircraft arrival handling, including flight operators, have a unified understanding by incorporating a briefing process. Minor updates in sections 4.6 on aircraft departure and 4.9 on aircraft towing have also been included to improve clarity and understanding, following feedback from flight operators and other stakeholders.

Highlights of the 2024 Airport Handling Manual (AHM)

The Airport Handling Manual (AHM) has undergone significant revisions, with Edition 44 set to take effect on January 1, 2024. Notably, Chapter Six on Management and Safety has been extensively updated. All standards from the Organization Management Section (ORM) of the IATA ISAGO Standards Manual Edition 10 have been integrated into the relevant sections of AHM Chapter Six. Consequently, the ISAGO Standards Manual will no longer exist as a standalone document, and the ISAGO checklist will now be available in the electronic version of the toolbox.

A new Chapter, AHM 601, titled “Organization Management,” has been introduced. This chapter aims to establish guidelines for a required framework for management and control within any company providing ground handling services at an airport. The inclusion of this chapter centralizes the management section within the documentation, reducing duplication of management control across other chapters. AHM 601 contains common topics applicable to all chapters of the 600 series, as well as most standards and recommended practices previously documented in the ISAGO ORM Section.

In addition to these changes, other AHM chapters have also been revised. For example, AHM 800 on Ground Handling Agreements now includes an amended cargo KPI. AHM 900, which covers GSE Specifications, has been updated to cross-reference IATA/SAE/ISO/CEN standards, and a maintenance checklist for electrical GSE has been introduced. Chapter 1100, which details the Ground Operations Training program, now features updates, most notably the introduction of the training passports concept. Additional changes include updates triggered by the revision of other AHM 600 chapters, such as enhancements to SMS and Human Factors training and the inclusion of requirements for auditor training, which are crucial for flight operators and ground handlers alike.

Revisions in the 2024 Standard Procedures for Preloading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) Manual

The IATA Preloading Advance Cargo Information (PLACI) manual, essential for professionals involved in air cargo operations, compliance, key message exchange, or customs declarations, has been updated in its fifth edition for 2024. This update comes in response to significant new requirements from the European Union for all aircraft entering or transiting through any of the 27 EU Member States, Switzerland, and Norway. Key updates to this edition include important revisions to the EU PLACI system section.

The manual now incorporates outcomes from a crucial workshop held by IATA in June, prior to the July implementation of the EU PLACI system, also known as ICS2. This workshop, conducted with EU regulators and other stakeholders, facilitated extensive discussions on the implementation of the PLACI program across the EU and other regions developing similar programs. The summary and slides from this workshop are available in the toolbox menu.

Additionally, the ICS2 framework, which extends beyond cargo to include airmail, introduces new business processes for postal operators and carriers. This edition provides updated guidance on managing revised referrals under EU ICS2. The manual reflects ongoing advancements in PLACI initiatives, including updates on developments and future implementations in various countries such as the United States, EU, UK, UAE, and Canada. Furthermore, revisions have been made to correct terminology and improve the manual’s structure for consistency and readability.

New Developments in the 2024 IATA Cargo Handling Manual (ICHM)

The eighth edition of the IATA Cargo Handling Manual for 2024 introduces several key updates aimed at enhancing cargo operations. Notable changes include improvements in Operational Risk Assessment, training requirements for cargo operations, and guidelines for special load handling. Building on the sixth and seventh editions, this update emphasizes the refinement of Operational Risk Assessment procedures and the introduction of a new Operational Risk Index to evaluate the likelihood and impact of operational disruptions. The IATA Cargo Handling Council has revised the risk assessment content across each step of the master operating plan and updated hazard symbols to better reflect risks and mitigation strategies.

Additionally, the manual now provides enhanced guidance on cargo operations training, including updates to training assessment plans, instructor competencies, and the retention period of training records. Furthermore, after extensive industry collaboration, new content has been developed for handling special loads—such as aircraft engines, vehicles, and oversized cargo. These additions offer comprehensive guidance for safely managing special load shipments, addressing all necessary spreading and lashing requirements.

Runway Excursion Mitigation

Runway excursions remain a significant safety concern in business aviation. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) has emphasized the importance of adhering to stabilized approach and landing criteria and using accurate and timely runway condition data. The FAA has also introduced regulations requiring operators to utilize tools like the Takeoff and Landing Performance Assessment (TALPA) to determine runway conditions.

• Flight operators might implement a policy requiring pilots to use TALPA data before every landing. This data helps pilots assess runway conditions and make informed decisions about landing distances and speeds, thereby reducing the risk of runway excursions.

Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) Prevention

Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) incidents continue to be a leading cause of fatalities in business aviation. The FAA and NBAA have introduced regulations and guidelines to mitigate CFIT risks, including the mandatory use of Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning Systems (EGPWS) and scenario-based training for pilots.

• Flight operators could equip their fleet with the latest EGPWS technology and conduct regular training sessions where pilots practice responding to terrain warnings. This training would include simulated scenarios where pilots must take immediate corrective action to avoid terrain.

EASA’s First EU-Wide Regulation on Ground Handling

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has proposed the first-ever EU-wide regulation on ground handling, aimed at increasing safety, cybersecurity, and consistency across all ground handling activities at European Union airports. This regulation requires ground handling service providers to implement scalable Safety Management Systems (SMS) proportional to their operations’ size and complexity, covering safety culture, risk management, and continuous improvement processes. It also mandates adherence to Regulation (EU) 2022/1645 on cybersecurity, ensuring the protection of ground support equipment and data integrity. Additionally, comprehensive training programs for ground handling personnel, a maintenance program for regular inspections of ground support equipment, and standardized operational procedures are required to ensure consistency and safety in ground handling activities.

• Flight operators in the EU might need to update their ground handling procedures to comply with the new EASA regulations. This could involve implementing enhanced cybersecurity measures for ground support equipment, standardizing safety protocols across all ground handling activities, and ensuring consistent training for ground handling personnel.

Implications for Business Flight Operators

The latest aviation safety regulations present both challenges and opportunities for business flight operators. By understanding and implementing these regulations, operators can enhance their safety culture, improve operational efficiency, and maintain regulatory compliance. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to safer skies and a more robust aviation industry.

Enhanced Safety Culture

The implementation of SMS and adherence to new safety regulations foster a culture of safety within the organization. Operators are encouraged to continuously monitor and improve their safety practices, leading to a proactive approach to risk management.

Operational Efficiency

By utilizing tools like TALPA and EGPWS, operators can enhance their operational efficiency. Accurate runway condition data and advanced warning systems enable pilots to make better-informed decisions, reducing the likelihood of incidents and improving overall flight safety.

Regulatory Compliance

Staying compliant with the latest regulations is crucial for business flight operators to avoid penalties and maintain their operating licenses. Implementing SMS and other safety measures ensures that operators meet regulatory requirements and demonstrate their commitment to safety.

Competitive Advantage

Operators who proactively adopt the latest safety regulations can gain a competitive edge in the market. Clients and passengers are more likely to choose operators with a strong safety record and advanced safety management practices.

The global average effective implementation (EI) of ICAO safety standards was 69% in 2019, with 69.19% of states achieving the target of 60% EI as recommended by the Global Aviation Safety Plan (GASP) 2017–2019. The FAA also reports high rates of Safety Management System (SMS) implementation among commercial operators, which has contributed to improved safety performance. These statistics highlight the significant improvements and ongoing efforts in aviation safety by major regulatory bodies.

At Just Aviation, we deliver exceptional flight support services focused on safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Our experts stay ahead of industry trends, ensuring your operations meet the highest standards. By integrating advanced safety systems, adhering to strict ground handling protocols, and continuously updating procedures based on IATA and EASA guidelines, we provide a seamless and secure flight experience, making us a trusted partner for business flight operators worldwide.