PRIVATE AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS (NCC)
Applicability
Certain General Aviation aircraft operations which fall into any of the following categories are required to obtain an approval from the BCAA:
- Operating aircraft with an MTOM over 5,700 kg
- Turbojet aircraft
- Aircraft approved for more than nine passenger seats
- A helicopter with an MTOM over 3,180 kg
- A helicopter approved for more than five passenger seats
- Part of an operation that involves more than two aircraft
Requirement
The requirement to obtain an approval is stated in Articles 132 and 133 of the AN(OT)O 2013 and the approval process is explained in Article 134, as amended. Further details are provided in OTAR 125 Appendix A.
Process
Historically, there were two routes to obtain BCAA approval: either through continued achievement of the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) standard as run by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), or by satisfying the needs of OTAR 125, overseen directly by the BCAA.
However, the BCAA has recently decided to introduce a wider spectrum of methods for compliance by including other industry standards (subject to an OTAR Gap analysis).
Examples of possible AMOCs are:
- IS-BAO
- Wyvern
- Argus
- EASA Part NCC
- Flight Safety Foundation
New Application Package
Agencies Assisting in Article 134 (NCC) Approvals
There are several private companies that can assist an operator with the process of achieving BCAA approval. Rather than publish a list, we encourage operators to conduct their own research and if necessary, approach the BCAA for un-biased guidance.
Minimum Equipment List
OTAR 125 requires that where an aircraft has a Master MEL, the operator must develop a customised MEL. The following documents are available to help the operator produce a MEL:
Low Visibility Operations
The requirements for Low Visibility Operations (LVO) are found in Section IV of OTAR Part SPA (Special Approvals) and the applicable appendices. Please note OTAR 125.1115 (c), states the need for six-month (biannual) simulator checks. OTAR 125, which includes the LVO SPA, can be found on www.airsafety.aero.
Note: CAT 1 or Non-Precision Approach (LOC, RNP, VOR-DME) utilizing HUDLS/hybrid HUD/HUDLS and/ or EVS is not classified as Low Visibility Operations and therefore does NOT require Governor’s Approval.
Airspace Approvals
An extensive application form for airspace approvals, as well as guidance on completing it, is available on the BCAA AIRS public website. This application form includes all aspects of Performance Based Navigation, Surveillance and Communications as well as RVSM and NAT HLA.
- AIRS Public (for FORMS 9531 Airspace Approval, 9019 Part NCC Article 134 Approval, 9022 Low Vis Ops Approval)
- RNP and RNP AR Approach Application Guide
- North Atlantic Ops & Airspace Manual
- GOLD
- RVSM Monitoring Requirements
Electronic flight bag (e.f.b.)
The Electronic Flight Bag (E.F.B.) requirements are found in OTAR Part 125.800 (a) Complex General Aviation, including Corporate Operations.
Please note that the safety management system (SMS) should be utilized by carrying out a risk analysis which documents any anomalies experienced by using the E.F.B. The operations manual should include the standard operating procedures for the use of aircraft, crew, and other operating staff for every aircraft type operated. These procedures shall contain the normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures relating to the operation of the aircraft.
Training Best Practices
Aircrew Training Best Practices:
| Ground Training | Flight Training | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual - Flight Crew | Donning of lifejacket Donning of PBE Handling of fire extinguishers Instruction/location of all Safety/emergency equipment First aid kits Defibrillators (if carried) Operation of all exits Aviation security |
Licence Proficiency Check (mandatory) LVO (if approval held – every six months) Use of HUD/EVS Right hand seat (if co-Captain) Specific airfield RNP AR (if approved) |
| Biennial – Flight Crew | Safe transport of dangerous goods Navigation procedures SMS |
|
| Triennial – Flight Crew | CRM awareness Use of aircraft slides (if fitted) Actual use of fire-fighting equipment Smoke filled cabin Handling of distress flares Demonstration of life raft (if fitted) Ditching procedures |
|
| Annual - Cabin Crew (when carried as per Regulations) | Authority structure Normal and emergency assignments Passenger handling and briefings Use of cabin equipment and controls Use of normal and emergency exits Instruction/location of all Safety/emergency equipment Location and use of oxygen equipment Use of aircraft slides (if fitted) Aviation security |
|
| Biennial – Cabin Crew (when carried as per Regulations) | Safe transport of dangerous goods SMS |
|
| Triennial – Cabin Crew (when carried as per Regulations) | CRM awareness Aircraft documentation |