Airport Certification Manual: What's The Purpose?

what is an airport certification manual

An Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a document prepared and maintained by airport operators that outlines the procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibility assignments necessary for airport personnel to comply with the legal requirements of the United States Code of Federal Regulations, Title 14, Part 139.201. The ACM is a critical component of airport management, providing a framework for safe and efficient airport operations. It is subject to inspection and approval by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which ensures that airports adhere to the necessary safety standards and procedures. The ACM is a dynamic document that must be kept current, with any amendments or updates reviewed and approved by the FAA to maintain the airport's certification.

Characteristics Values
Definition A document prepared and maintained by the airport operator outlining measures to comply with requirements.
Purpose To ensure airports are maintained and operated in accordance with the outlined measures.
Contents Operating procedures, facilities and equipment, responsibility assignments, and any other information needed by personnel to comply with FAR Part 139.
Requirements Must be in printed form, signed by the certificate holder, and kept current at all times.
Approval Prepared by airport management and approved by the FAA.
Amendment Process Regional Airports Division Manager notifies the certificate holder of any amendments, which become effective within 30 days.
Emergency Amendment If safety is at risk, the Regional Airports Division Manager may issue an amendment effective immediately.

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The Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a document prepared and maintained by the airport operator

The ACM is a critical document for airport safety and operations, and it must be kept current and easily accessible by the airport operator. It serves as a reference for airport personnel, providing clear instructions and guidelines to ensure safe and efficient airport operations. The manual includes procedures for various aspects of airport management, such as emergency response plans, fuel system control, and environmental protection practices.

Additionally, the ACM is subject to inspection and approval by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Airport operators seeking an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC) must submit their ACM to the FAA for review. The FAA will then conduct an inspection to ensure compliance with Part 139 regulations before issuing the AOC. This process helps maintain standardized safety protocols across airports in the United States.

To facilitate the approval process, the ACM should be organized in a user-friendly manner, with each page or attachment clearly indicating the date of initial approval or latest revision. Any amendments made to the ACM must be brought to the attention of the Regional Airports Division Manager, who may implement emergency amendments without delay if they deem it necessary for safety.

Overall, the ACM is a comprehensive document that plays a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of airports. It serves as a reference for airport personnel and undergoes regular review and approval by the FAA to maintain compliance with the latest regulations and ensure the well-being of passengers, staff, and the surrounding community.

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ACMs outline measures to comply with the requirements of CFR 14 Part 139

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requires airport operators to submit Airport Certification Manuals (ACMs) as part of the application process for an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC). ACMs are written documents that outline how an airport will conduct its operations to comply with the requirements of CFR 14 Part 139.

The ACM is a crucial component of Part 139 compliance, detailing the specific measures the airport operator will take to meet the standards set forth in the regulation. It is written by the airport operator and reviewed and signed by the FAA inspector assigned to the airport. The ACM covers various aspects of airport operations, including emergency response, wildlife management, inspections, and more.

One key area addressed in the ACM is aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF). The airport's ARFF Index, designated by letters A-E, is determined by the longest air carrier aircraft that serves the airport with five or more average daily departures. The ARFF personnel and equipment must be capable of handling the specific aircraft type, and they must conduct drills to ensure their readiness for potential emergencies.

In addition to ARFF, the ACM also outlines the airport's approach to inspections. Part 139 requires airports to conduct four types of inspections: regularly scheduled, continuous, periodic, and special. During these inspections, airport operations personnel must physically examine the airfield, paying close attention to signage, markings, pavement condition, lighting, foreign object debris (FOD), wildlife, and other critical factors. The ACM specifies the frequency of these inspections, which can be several times a day.

Furthermore, the ACM addresses wildlife management, which is crucial for maintaining a safe environment for pilots and aircraft. Part 139 airports are mandated to implement wildlife management plans to mitigate and eliminate the hazards posed by animals. These plans focus on both scaring away wildlife from the airfield and relocating their habitats outside the security fence.

Overall, the ACM serves as a comprehensive guide, ensuring that airport operators have carefully considered and documented their compliance with the requirements of CFR 14 Part 139. It provides a clear framework for safe and efficient airport operations, helping to prevent interruptions in air carrier operations and maintain the highest standards of safety in air transportation.

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The ACM must be kept current and a copy must be available for inspection

The Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a critical document that ensures the safe and compliant operation of airports. Prepared and maintained by the airport operator, it outlines the procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibilities necessary for compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) regulations. As airports are dynamic environments with evolving standards and requirements, it is essential that the ACM remains current and accessible for inspection.

Keeping the ACM current is a vital aspect of airport management. According to Federal Aviation Administration regulations, each holder of an Airport Operating Certificate must ensure that their ACM is up-to-date at all times. This entails regularly reviewing and revising the manual to incorporate any changes in procedures, facilities, or applicable regulations. By staying current, the ACM serves as a reliable reference for airport personnel, guiding them in their day-to-day operations and decision-making processes.

Maintaining a complete and current copy of the approved ACM on the airport premises is a mandatory requirement. This copy is readily available for inspection by the FAA or other authorized entities. The accessibility of the ACM for inspection ensures compliance with regulatory requirements and promotes transparency in airport operations. During an inspection, the FAA can verify that the airport operator is adhering to the approved procedures, standards, and safety protocols outlined in the ACM.

The ACM is subject to amendments, which are typically initiated by the Regional Airports Division Manager. In regular circumstances, the certificate holder is notified of any amendments, and these amendments come into effect at least 30 days after the notification. This period allows airport operators to familiarize themselves with the changes and make any necessary adjustments to their operations. However, in emergency situations requiring immediate action related to safety, the Regional Airports Division Manager can implement amendments without delay.

To facilitate the revision process and maintain transparency, each page or attachment of the ACM must include the date of the Administrator's initial approval or the latest revision approval. This revision log helps ensure that all stakeholders are working with the most current information and enables efficient updates. Additionally, the certificate holder must provide a complete copy of the most current ACM, including any amendments, to the Regional Airports Division Manager.

In summary, the ACM is a living document that must evolve alongside the airport's operations and regulatory landscape. By keeping the ACM current and accessible for inspection, airport operators can ensure compliance with FAA regulations, promote safety, and maintain efficient airport operations. This proactive approach to ACM management contributes to the overall smooth functioning of the airport and safeguards the interests of all stakeholders involved.

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The ACM is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is an operating mode of the U.S. Department of Transportation. The FAA is responsible for regulating and overseeing civil aviation in the United States, including the certification of airports.

The Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a critical component of airport operations and their compliance with federal regulations. The ACM outlines the methods and procedures that an airport operator will employ to adhere to the certification requirements specified in Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 139. This includes details on how the airport will ensure safe and efficient operations for aircraft carriers.

To obtain approval from the FAA, airport operators must submit their ACM to the Regional Airports Division Office for review. The FAA staff scrutinizes the ACM and associated documentation to ensure they meet the standards outlined in Part 139. They may also conduct on-site inspections to verify compliance with the regulatory requirements.

During the review process, the FAA works closely with the airport operator to tailor the ACM if necessary. This collaboration ensures that any revisions or updates are in line with the regulations. The FAA provides guidance and support to airport operators to help them navigate the complex process of obtaining certification.

Once the FAA is satisfied that the ACM complies with Part 139 and that the airport operator can adhere to the necessary safety standards, they will grant approval. This approval is a crucial step for airport operators to continue serving air carrier operations without interruption.

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The ACM includes operating procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibility assignments

An Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a document prepared and maintained by an airport operator outlining measures intended to comply with the requirements of CFR 14 Part 139, "Certification and Operations: Land Airports Serving Air Carriers". The ACM includes operating procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibility assignments, as well as any other information needed by personnel to operate the airport safely and efficiently.

The ACM is a critical document that ensures the safe and efficient operation of an airport. It outlines the specific procedures, facilities, and equipment that are unique to each airport and are necessary for compliance with regulatory requirements. By providing clear instructions and guidelines, the ACM helps airport personnel carry out their duties effectively and in line with established standards.

Operating procedures in the ACM cover a range of topics such as emergency response plans, aircraft movement and parking procedures, security protocols, and passenger handling processes. These procedures are designed to ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft and passengers through the airport, as well as to maintain a high level of security and safety for all stakeholders.

Facilities and equipment sections of the ACM detail the physical infrastructure and resources necessary for airport operations. This includes specifications for runways, taxiways, aprons, and terminals, as well as equipment such as lighting systems, navigation aids, ground support equipment, and security systems. The ACM also outlines the maintenance and inspection procedures for these facilities and equipment to ensure they remain in good condition and comply with relevant standards.

Responsibility assignments within the ACM clearly define the roles and responsibilities of airport personnel. It outlines the duties of key positions such as the airport manager, operations staff, maintenance crews, security personnel, and customer service agents. By delineating responsibilities, the ACM ensures accountability and efficient coordination among the various departments and individuals involved in airport operations.

The ACM is a living document that is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect changes in regulations, airport infrastructure, and operational requirements. It serves as a comprehensive reference for airport personnel, providing clear guidance on procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibilities, enabling them to carry out their duties in a safe, efficient, and compliant manner.

Frequently asked questions

An ACM is a document prepared and maintained by airport operators that outlines the measures intended to comply with the requirements of CFR 14 Part 139, "Certification and Operations: Land Airports Serving Air Carriers".

An ACM contains operating procedures, facilities and equipment, responsibility assignments, and any other information needed by personnel concerned with operating the airport.

An ACM is approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The purpose of an ACM is to ensure that airports are maintained and operated in accordance with the relevant safety standards and procedures.

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