Airport Certification Manual: Who Writes Them?

who writes an airport certification manual

The Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a document that outlines the requirements and procedures for airport operators to obtain and maintain their Airport Operating Certificate (AOC). The manual is typically written and submitted by the airport operator to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as part of the AOC application process. It includes information on the airport's operations, safety procedures, facilities, equipment, and compliance with relevant regulations, particularly Part 139 of the Federal Aviation Regulations. The ACM is subject to amendments by the Regional Airports Division Manager, who is responsible for ensuring the manual remains up-to-date and compliant with safety standards. The certificate holder must keep the ACM current and available for inspection, with any amendments or updates properly documented and approved.

Characteristics Values
Who writes an Airport Certification Manual? The Airport operator
Who issues an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC)? The FAA
Who should the certificate holder notify about any amendments to the Airport Certification Manual? The Regional Airports Division Manager
Who does the Regional Airports Division Manager notify about any amendments to the Airport Certification Manual? The certificate holder
Who can the certificate holder petition if they disagree with an amendment? The Associate Administrator for Airports

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Airport operators must submit Airport Certification Manuals (ACMs) and applications early to avoid interruption of air carrier operations

Airport operators are encouraged to submit Airport Certification Manuals (ACMs) and applications early to avoid any interruption to air carrier operations. This is part of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Part 139 Airport Certification process.

The ACM is a comprehensive document that outlines the procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibility assignments necessary for the safe and efficient operation of an airport. It is a critical component of the airport's certification process, ensuring that the airport meets all the necessary safety and regulatory requirements.

To initiate the application process for an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC), airport operators must contact the appropriate FAA Regional Airports Division Office. The Regional Airports Division Office will then interview the airport operator to gather information about the airport and the air carrier operations it serves or intends to serve.

Following this, the FAA will determine whether an AOC is necessary and, if so, provide the operator with an application for certification and relevant guidance materials. It is important to note that the certificate may include additional provisions deemed necessary by the FAA to ensure safety in air transportation.

To ensure a smooth and timely certification process, airport operators should submit their ACMs and applications well in advance. This allows for any potential issues or amendments to be addressed without causing delays or interruptions to air carrier operations. The Regional Airports Division Manager plays a crucial role in this process, as they are responsible for reviewing and approving ACMs, as well as initiating any necessary amendments to ensure safety and compliance.

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Airport operators must contact the FAA Regional Airports Division Office to initiate the application process

Airport operators play a crucial role in ensuring that their facilities meet the necessary safety and regulatory standards. To achieve this, airport operators must navigate the airport certification process, which involves close collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and adherence to the requirements outlined in the Airport Certification Manual (ACM).

The ACM is a comprehensive document that provides a roadmap for airport operators to follow as they seek to obtain and maintain their airport operating certificate. It outlines the specific procedures, facilities, equipment requirements, and responsibility assignments necessary for safe and efficient airport operations. By complying with the ACM, airport operators can ensure that their facilities meet the stringent standards set by the FAA.

Initiating the application process for airport certification begins with airport operators contacting the appropriate FAA Regional Airports Division Office. This crucial first step sets the stage for a collaborative and thorough evaluation of the airport's operations and its compliance with safety regulations. During this initial contact, the Regional Airports Division Office conducts an interview with the airport operator to gather pertinent information about the airport and the air carrier operations it serves or intends to serve.

This interview process allows the FAA to gain a comprehensive understanding of the unique aspects of each airport and make informed decisions regarding the necessity of a certificate. Should the FAA determine that a certificate is required, the dedicated staff will provide the airport operator with the necessary application for certification and offer guidance materials to facilitate a smooth application process.

Throughout the certification process, the FAA remains committed to supporting airport operators in their efforts to ensure safe and efficient operations. By providing clear guidelines and resources, the FAA helps operators navigate the complexities of airport management, ultimately contributing to the overall safety and reliability of air transportation.

It is important to note that the ACM is subject to amendments by the Regional Airports Division Manager, who may initiate changes independently if it is deemed necessary for ensuring safety in air transportation. This dynamic nature of the ACM underscores the importance of airport operators maintaining a current and easily revisable manual, readily available for inspection by the Administrator.

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The FAA will issue an AOC if the application meets the provisions of Part 139 and the airport operator is in compliance

Airport operators who want to apply for an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC) must initiate the application process as prescribed in § 139.103. The process begins with the airport operator contacting the appropriate FAA Regional Airports Division Office, which then interviews the operator to obtain information about the airport and its air carrier operations. If the FAA determines that a certificate is necessary, the operator is provided with an application for certification and guidance materials.

The operator must then submit a completed application to the Regional Airports Division Office for approval, along with two copies of its proposed Airport Certification Manual (ACM) and written documentation of when air carrier service will commence. The ACM is a written document that details how the airport operator will comply with the requirements of Part 139. It must be in printed form, signed by the certificate holder, and organized in a manner that facilitates the preparation, review, and approval processes.

The FAA reviews the application and associated documentation to ensure they are complete and may conduct an inspection of the airport to verify compliance with Part 139 requirements. The FAA works with the operator to tailor the ACM to ensure compliance with the revised rule and may request changes to the ACM and any procedures it describes. During the review process, FAA staff maintains communication with the operator to discuss whether additional action is needed and to what extent air carrier operations can continue until an AOC is issued.

The FAA will issue an AOC if the application, associated documentation, and inspection show that the airport operator meets the provisions of Part 139 and is in compliance. The certificate may include other provisions deemed necessary by the FAA to ensure safety in air transportation. Compliance with Part 139 is mandatory for operators of airports in the United States, the District of Columbia, or any territory or possession of the United States serving passenger-carrying operations of certain air carriers.

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The Airport Certification Manual must be in printed form and signed by the certificate holder

The Airport Certification Manual (ACM) is a crucial document for airport operators seeking to obtain and maintain their Airport Operating Certificate (AOC). To ensure compliance with regulations and maintain safe airport operations, it is imperative that the ACM is meticulously prepared, kept current, and readily available for inspection.

One of the fundamental requirements of the ACM is that it must be in printed form. This stipulation, as outlined in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations, ensures a tangible and accessible record of the airport's operating procedures, facilities, and equipment. The printed nature of the ACM allows for easy reference and facilitates the revision process, which is essential for maintaining an up-to-date manual.

Moreover, the certificate holder's signature on the printed ACM is of utmost importance. This signature signifies the certificate holder's acknowledgement of their responsibility to operate the airport in compliance with the ACM, as approved by the Administrator. The signature serves as a legal affirmation, holding the certificate holder accountable for adhering to the established standards and procedures outlined in the manual.

The ACM is subject to amendments, which are typically proposed by the certificate holder and submitted to the Regional Airports Division Manager for approval. These amendments may be initiated by the holder to incorporate updates or changes to the airport's operations, facilities, or equipment. In certain cases, the Regional Airports Division Manager may also amend the ACM on their own initiative if they determine that safety in air transportation necessitates immediate action.

To maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the ACM, it is mandatory for the certificate holder to keep the manual current at all times. This includes implementing approved amendments and ensuring that the most recent version of the ACM is readily available on the airport premises for inspection by the Administrator or their designated representatives.

By adhering to these requirements, the ACM serves as a dynamic and reliable reference for airport operations, ensuring that the certificate holder is committed to operating the airport in a safe and compliant manner, as outlined in the Federal Aviation Administration's regulations.

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The certificate holder must provide the Regional Airports Division Manager with a complete copy of its most current approved Airport Certification Manual

Airport operators are required to submit an Airport Certification Manual (ACM) as part of the application process for an Airport Operating Certificate (AOC). The ACM is a comprehensive document that outlines the airport's operating procedures, facilities, equipment, responsibility assignments, and any other information necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the airport.

The certificate holder is responsible for ensuring that the Regional Airports Division Manager receives a complete copy of the most current approved ACM. This is a crucial step in maintaining compliance and ensuring that any necessary amendments can be made. The Regional Airports Division Manager has the authority to amend the ACM if they determine that changes are required to ensure safety in air transportation.

To facilitate this process, the certificate holder must keep their ACM current at all times and maintain at least one complete and approved copy on the airport premises. This copy is readily available for inspection by the Regional Airports Division Manager or other administrators. By having access to the most current ACM, administrators can assess the airport's adherence to regulations and make informed decisions regarding any necessary amendments.

The ACM is a dynamic document that may undergo revisions and updates. As such, the certificate holder must submit any proposed amendments to the Regional Airports Division Manager in writing at least 30 days before the intended effective date. This allows for a thorough review process and ensures that all stakeholders are informed of any changes. If the Regional Airports Division Manager refuses to approve the proposed amendment, the certificate holder has the right to petition the Associate Administrator for Airports to reconsider the decision.

It is important to note that, in emergency situations where immediate action is required to ensure safety in air transportation, the Regional Airports Division Manager can issue an amendment without delay. This amendment takes effect immediately upon notification to the certificate holder, who can then petition for reconsideration if necessary. Overall, the process of providing the Regional Airports Division Manager with the current ACM facilitates a collaborative approach to airport safety and enables efficient management of any required changes.

Frequently asked questions

Airport operators are responsible for writing and submitting an Airport Certification Manual (ACM) to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

An airport certification manual outlines the procedures, facilities, equipment, and responsibility assignments necessary for operating an airport.

An airport certification manual ensures that an airport operator complies with the safety regulations outlined in Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 139.

The Regional Airports Division Manager approves an airport certification manual.

Yes, a certificate holder must submit a written request for an amendment to the Regional Airports Division Manager at least 30 days before the proposed effective date of the amendment. The Regional Airports Division Manager can also amend the manual on their own initiative if they deem it necessary for safety in air transportation.

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