ADR.OPS.D.001 Apron management safety related activities
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall ensure that means and procedures are established and implemented on the apron in order to:
(1) regulate movement with the objective of preventing collisions between aircraft, and between aircraft and obstacles;
(2) regulate entry of aircraft into, and coordinate exit of aircraft from the apron with the aerodrome control tower;
(3) ensure safe and expeditious movement of vehicles;
(4) and appropriate regulation of the following activities:
(i) aircraft stand allocation;
(ii) provision of marshalling services;
(iii) aircraft parking procedure and departure from the stand;
(iv) aircraft refuelling;
(v) jet blast precautions and engine tests;
(vi) start up clearances and taxi instructions.
(b) The aerodrome operator, in order to implement point (a) may allocate responsibilities to other organisations. If the aerodrome operator allocates such responsibilities, it shall include the allocation in the aerodrome manual.
ADR.OPS.D.005 Apron boundaries
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator, in cooperation with the air traffic service provider, shall define and provide the apron boundaries to the aeronautical information service provider for publication in the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP).
(b) When defining the apron boundaries, at least the following shall be taken into consideration:
(1) aerodrome layout;
(2) runway and taxiway configuration and method of operation;
(3) traffic density;
(4) weather conditions;
(5) operational procedures.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.005 Apron boundaries
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PUBLICATION OF THE APRON BOUNDARIES
A graphical illustration of the apron boundaries should be shown in the Aerodrome Chart — ICAO.
ADR.OPS.D.010 Coordination of aircraft entry to/exit from the apron
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall ensure that the aircraft entry to and exit from the apron is coordinated with the air traffic services provider, where aircraft movement on the apron is not managed by the air traffic service provider. The coordination shall include:
(1) designated handover points between apron management service and air traffic service for arriving and departing aircraft;
(2) designated air-ground communication facilities to be used at the apron;
(3) holding areas for arriving aircraft when aircraft stands are not available.
(b) The aerodrome operator shall provide to the aeronautical information service providers for publication in the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP):
(1) the designated handover points referred to in point (a)(1);
(2) the designated air-ground communication facilities referred to in point (a)(2).
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.010(a)(2);(b)(2) Coordination of aircraft entry to
/ exit from the apron
ED Decision 2020/021/R
DESIGNATED AIR–GROUND COMMUNICATION FACILITIES
(a) Depending on the aerodrome layout, traffic density and availability of radio frequencies,
air–ground communication facilities allocated to air traffic services (ATS) may also be used at the apron.
(b) The following information should be provided for publication in the aeronautical information publication (AIP) in regard to air–ground communication facilities used at the apron:
(1) service designation;
(2) call sign;
(3) channel(s)/frequency(ies);
(4) hours of operation; and
(5) remarks.
ADR.OPS.D.015 Management of aircraft movements on the apron
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
The aerodrome operator shall ensure that:
(a) aircraft are provided with instructions on the route to be followed on the apron;
(b) adequate visual aids are provided in order to ensure that flight crews are able to identify the assigned route;
(c) the intended route is free of any obstacle that may risk collision with the moving aircraft.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.015(a) Management of aircraft movements on the apron
ED Decision 2020/021/R
AIRCRAFT GUIDANCE
Instructions to aircraft should be given either by:
(a) issuing verbal instructions on a predetermined air–ground communication facility; or
(b) using a ‘FOLLOW ME’ vehicle; or
(c) appropriate marshalling hand signals; or
(d) any combination of the above.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.015(b) Management of aircraft movements on the apron
ED Decision 2020/021/R
VISUAL AIDS
Visual aids are considered the appropriate markings, lights, signs and markers. The technical specifications are included in the Certification Specifications and Guidance Material for Aerodromes Design (CS-ADR-DSN).
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.015(c) Management of aircraft movement on the apron
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PROTECTION OF ROUTES TO BE FOLLOWED BY A MOVING AIRCRAFT (TAXI ROUTES)
The protection of the taxi route of a moving aircraft should be provided by:
(a) segregating taxi routes from vehicular traffic and pedestrian movement;
(b) designating dedicated areas for the parking of vehicles and equipment; and
(c) minimising the crossing of apron taxiways, and when this is not possible because of the apron layout, by allowing crossing only at designated and clearly marked locations.
ADR.OPS.D.025 Aircraft stand allocation
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall establish and ensure the implementation of procedures to ensure that the allocated aircraft stand is:
(1) suitable for the aircraft type intended to use it;
(2) communicated to the organisation responsible for the provision of AMS, when established, or to the appropriate air traffic service provider;
(3) communicated to the persons responsible for the manoeuvring of the aircraft.
(b) The aerodrome operator shall ensure that, at least the following parameters are taken into consideration when allocating aircraft to aircraft stands:
(1) aircraft characteristics;
(2) parking aids;
(3) facilities serving the aircraft stand;
(4) vicinity of infrastructure;
(5) other parked aircraft in the neighbouring aircraft stands;
(6) aircraft stand dependencies.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.025 Aircraft stand allocation
ED Decision 2020/021/R
RESPONSIBILITY FOR AIRCRAFT STAND ALLOCATION
The overall responsibility for aircraft stand allocation normally lies with the aerodrome operator. The aerodrome operator may also decide to delegate the aircraft stand allocation to an air operator or to an organisation responsible for the provision of groundhandling services if they have a dedicated terminal or an apron area. However, the aerodrome operator remains ultimately responsible for ensuring that safety is maintained.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.025(a)(3) Aircraft stand allocation
ED Decision 2020/021/R
COMMUNICATION OF THE ASSIGNED AIRCRAFT STAND TO THE PERSONNEL DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE FOR THE MANOEUVRING OF THE AIRCRAFT
The information on the stand assigned to arriving aircraft should be communicated to the personnel responsible for the manoeuvring of arriving aircraft:
(a) through a radio frequency; or
(b) through data link communication; or
(c) with a ‘FOLLOW ME’ vehicle; or
(d) with marshalling hand signals; or
(e) with a visual docking guidance system; or
(f) any combination of the above.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.025(b)(1) Aircraft stand allocation
ED Decision 2020/021/R
CONSIDERATION OF AIRCRAFT CHARACTERISTICS FOR AIRCRAFT STAND ALLOCATION
The following aircraft characteristics are to be considered for the allocation of a stand:
(a) Fuselage length
The fuselage length is relevant for:
(1) the dimension of the movement area (taxiway holding bays and aprons), passenger gates and terminal areas; and
(2) the clearance at the aircraft stand.
(b) Sill height
The sill height is relevant for:
(1) the operational limits of the passenger boarding bridges (including the number of passenger boarding bridges needed);
(2) the mobile steps; and
(3) the access of vehicles for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).
(c) Tail height
The tail height is relevant for:
(1) de-icing/anti-icing facilities; and
(2) protection of the aerodrome’s obstacle limitation surfaces.
(d) Wingspan
The wingspan is relevant for:
(1) the dimensions of aprons and holding bays;
(2) the stand selection; and
(3) the clearance at the aircraft stand.
(e) Wing tip vertical clearance
The wing tip vertical clearance is relevant for apron and holding bay clearances with height‑limited objects.
(f) Cockpit view
The relevant geometric parameters to assess the cockpit view are the cockpit height, the cockpit cut-off angle, and the corresponding obscured segment. The cockpit view is relevant for maintaining a view of the stand entry guidance.
(g) Engine characteristics
The engine characteristics include engine geometry and engine airflow characteristics, which may affect aerodrome infrastructure, as well as aircraft groundhandling and the operations taking place in adjacent areas which are likely to become affected from jet blast.
(1) The engine geometry aspects are the following:
(i) the number of engines;
(ii) the location of the engines (span and length);
(iii) the vertical clearance of the engines; and
(iv) the vertical and horizontal extension of possible jet blast.
(2) The engine airflow characteristics are the following:
(i) idle and breakaway thrust; and
(ii) inlet suction effects at ground level.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.025(b)(2) Aircraft stand allocation
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PARKING AIDS
The following are considered parking aids:
(a) a visual or an advanced visual docking guidance system;
(b) a marshaller.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.025(b)(3) Aircraft stand allocation
ED Decision 2020/021/R
FACILITIES SERVING THE AIRCRAFT STAND
The following facilities may have an impact on the allocation of aircraft stand:
(a) passenger boarding bridges;
(b) fixed ground power supply units;
(c) air-conditioning units;
(d) location of fuel pits;
(e) equipment parking areas.
ADR.OPS.D.030 Marshalling of aircraft
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
The aerodrome operator shall ensure that marshalling of aircraft is provided using the marshalling signals in accordance with Appendix 1 to the Annex to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 923/201223 Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 923/2012 of 26 September 2012 laying down the common rules of the air and operational provisions regarding services and procedures in air navigation and amending Implementing Regulation (EU) No 1035/2011 and Regulations (EC) No 1265/2007, (EC) No 1794/2006, (EC) No 730/2006, (EC) No 1033/2006 and (EU) No 255/2010 (OJ L 281, 13.10.2012, p. 1)..
ADR.OPS.D.035 Aircraft parking
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
The aerodrome operator shall establish and ensure the implementation of procedures to ensure that:
(a) an area designated for aircraft parking on an apron is monitored to ensure that the clearance distances are maintained during the parking manoeuvre;
(b) guidance is provided to enable the aircraft to park safely;
(c) automated parking guidance systems, if installed, are functioning properly;
(d) persons responsible for aircraft taxiing are alerted to stop the aircraft when the clearance distances are not maintained;
(e) persons, other than those required to assist the aircraft parking procedure, are prohibited to approach the aircraft when anti-collision lights are turned on and engines are running;
(f) the aircraft stand is clear of any Foreign Object Debris (FOD) that may have an impact on safety.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.035(a) Aircraft parking
ED Decision 2020/021/R
MONITORING OF AIRCRAFT STAND
The monitoring of an aircraft during its arrival to the assigned stand should be conducted either by assigned personnel at the stand or through cameras in order to verify that clearance distances are maintained.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.035(b) Aircraft parking
ED Decision 2020/021/R
GUIDANCE OF AIRCRAFT DURING PARKING MANOEUVRES
Either of the following means should be used to guide an aircraft during parking manoeuvres:
(a) a visual or an advanced visual docking guidance system; or
(b) a marshaller(s).
AMC2 ADR.OPS.D.035(b) Aircraft parking
ED Decision 2020/021/R
OPERATION OF VISUAL AND ADVANCED VISUAL DOCKING GUIDANCE SYSTEMS
The procedure for the operation of visual and advanced visual docking guidance systems should:
(a) require the activation of the docking guidance system only when the stand is considered safe for use by the arriving aircraft and the involved personnel in charge of parking operations are present;
(b) require the activation of the docking guidance system before the aircraft arrives at the stand;
(c) require to check the suitability of the docking guidance system for the type of aircraft the use of the stand is intended for; and
(d) include emergency procedures to inform the flight crew when the parking operation has to be discontinued.
AMC3 ADR.OPS.D.035(b) Aircraft parking
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PROCEDURE FOR THE PROVISION OF MARSHALLING SERVICES
(a) The procedure for marshalling services, established by the aerodrome operator, should require the provision of marshalling services where visual or advanced visual docking guidance systems do not exist or are unserviceable, or where guidance to aircraft parking is required to avoid a safety hazard.
(b) The procedure should include comprehensive written instructions for marshallers, including:
(1) the need for the marshaller to ensure, before making the authorised hand signals, that the area within which the aircraft will be guided is clear of obstacles which the aircraft, in complying with their hand signals, might otherwise hit;
(2) the circumstances where one or more marshallers may be used and the circumstances when wing walkers are necessary; and
(3) the action to be taken in the event of an emergency or incident involving an aircraft and/or a vehicle during marshalling.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.035(c) Aircraft parking
ED Decision 2020/021/R
INSPECTION OF VISUAL/ADVANCED VISUAL DOCKING GUIDANCE SYSTEMS
Where a visual/advanced visual docking guidance system is provided, the aerodrome operator should ensure that the stopping guidance element is calibrated and is clearly and unambiguously indicated to all selected aircraft. The visual/advanced visual docking guidance system should be regularly checked for accuracy. Such systems should be subjected to daily serviceability checks whose results should be recorded.
ADR.OPS.D.040 Aircraft departure from the stand
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
The aerodrome operator shall establish and ensure the implementation of procedures to ensure that during the departure of an aircraft from the aircraft stand:
(a) ground servicing equipment, excluding push-back trucks if required for the movement of aircraft, and vehicles have been removed from the aircraft stand or parked in designated areas;
(b) if the aircraft stand is served by passenger boarding bridges, they have been retracted;
(c) the designated exit route from the aircraft stand is free of foreign object debris (FOD);
(d) vehicle movements on the stand and traffic on the adjacent road(s) have ceased, except for push-back trucks if required for the movement of aircraft;
(e) persons, other than those required to assist the aircraft departure from the aircraft stand, are prohibited to approach the aircraft when anti-collision lights are turned on and engines are running.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.040 Aircraft departure from the stand
ED Decision 2020/021/R
DESIGNATED EXIT ROUTE
Designated exit route is the path intended to be followed by the aircraft to leave the stand.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.040(e) Aircraft departure from the stand
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PERSONNEL THAT ASSIST AIRCRAFT TO DEPART FROM THE STAND
Personnel that assist aircraft to depart from the stand are, for example: tow-truck operators and push‑back coordinators; wing walkers; personnel that remove wheel chocks, fixed and mobile ground power units and air-conditioning units.
ADR.OPS.D.045 Dissemination of information to organisations operating at the apron
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall disseminate information regarding limitations to operations on the apron in a timely manner to relevant organisations operating on the apron.
(b) The information to be provided shall include the following, as applicable:
(1) the type of the limitation;
(2) the duration of the limitation, if known;
(3) mitigation measures to be applied;
(4) the operational impact of the limitation;
(5) availability of aircraft stands;
(6) restrictions on aircraft stands;
(7) availability of fixed installations at aircraft stands;
(8) special parking procedures;
(9) temporary changes of driving routes;
(10) work in progress;
(11) any other information that has operational significance to the apron users.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.045 Dissemination of information to organisations operating at the apron
ED Decision 2020/021/R
INFORMATION SHARING
Foreknowledge of the limitations to the operations at the apron will help maintain safety. The requirement to establish a process for disseminating operational information does not necessarily mean that the aerodrome operator has to develop a technical system specific to a particular aerodrome. The methods and the means selected depend on the complexity of the aerodrome, the number of organisations or apron users that have to be informed, existing systems, etc.
ADR.OPS.D.050 Alerting of emergency services
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall:
(1) establish and implement in the aerodrome emergency plan a procedure for alerting emergency services for accidents and incidents at the apron;
(2) provide the appropriate means and facilities for alerting the relevant emergency services.
(b) The procedure established by the aerodrome operator shall include at least the following:
(1) the contact details and the means that shall be used for alerting the emergency services;
(2) the information that has to be given to emergency services in order to handle the incident efficiently, such as:
(i) location of the accident or incident;
(ii) nature of the accident or incident;
(iii) damages;
(iv) injuries to persons;
(v) dangerous goods.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.050(a)(2) Alerting of emergency services
ED Decision 2020/021/R
MEANS TO ALERT THE EMERGENCY SERVICES
The following means should be available to alert the emergency services:
(1) radios; or
(2) telephones; or
(3) emergency buttons; or
(4) any combination of the above.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.050(a)(2) Alerting of emergency services
ED Decision 2020/021/R
SELECTION OF MEANS TO ALERT THE EMERGENCY SERVICES
The means that could be used to alert the emergency services depend on the size and complexity of the aerodrome. The requirements that apply locally would be assessed and the most appropriate means would be selected.
ADR.OPS.D.055 Jet blast precautions
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall make apron users aware of the hazards arising from jet blast and propeller slipstream.
(b) The aerodrome operator shall require the apron users to secure vehicles and equipment properly and designate parking areas where the effect of jet blast or propeller slipstream is minimised.
(c) When designing or making changes to apron layouts, the aerodrome operator shall take into consideration the effect of jet blast or propeller slipstream.
(d) The aerodrome operator shall identify jet blast-sensitive places and shall either publish a request for minimum thrust to pilots, or take appropriate mitigating measures to minimize the jet blast effect.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.055(a) Jet blast precautions
ED Decision 2020/021/R
INFORMATION ON HAZARDS
Information on the hazards caused by jet blast and propeller slipstream should be provided to the apron users through:
(a) safety training; or
(b) safety promotion; or
(c) a combination of the above.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.055(d) Jet blast precautions
ED Decision 2020/021/R
PUBLICATION OF REQUEST FOR MINIMUM THRUST
The request to pilots for minimum thrust at specific locations at the apron should be published in the aeronautical information publication (AIP). If necessary, information signs may be installed at these locations.
ADR.OPS.D.060 Aircraft refuelling
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall establish a procedure for aircraft refuelling.
(b) The procedure shall require the following:
(1) the prohibition of open flames and the use of electrical or similar tools likely to produce sparks or arcs within the refuelling zone;
(2) the prohibition to start ground power units during refuelling;
(3) the existence of an unobstructed path from the aircraft to allow the quick removal of fuel bowsers and persons in case of emergency;
(4) the correct bonding of aircraft and fuel supply sources and the correct application of earthing procedures;
(5) the immediate notification of the fuelling supervisor in case of fuel spillage and detailed instructions on how to handle fuel spillages;
(6) the positioning of ground support equipment in such a way that emergency exits are free of any obstruction to allow the expeditious evacuation of the passengers, if passengers are embarking or disembarking or remain in the aircraft during refuelling;
(7) the ready availability of fire extinguishers of a suitable type for at least initial intervention in the event of a fuel fire;
(8) the discontinuation of refuelling operations if electrical thunderstorms are at or in the vicinity of the aerodrome.
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall establish and implement an engine test procedure.
(b) The procedure shall include the following:
(1) the person that has the authority to approve engine tests;
(2) the areas where engine tests are conducted;
(3) the safety measures that need to be taken.
ED Decision 2020/021/R
GENERAL
(a) Where possible, engine tests are performed at designated remote areas.
(b) Engine run-ups at or above idle power are not permitted in cul-de-sacs, or in areas where the jet efflux would affect stands, equipment areas or work areas.
(c) Engine tests approved at stands in regular use at the apron should be limited to check starts and idle power only.
(d) Where engine tests are permitted to be performed at the apron, a remote area should be selected where the jet blast will not affect other apron areas and busy taxiways.
(e) Where necessary, engine tests are safeguarded by ground personnel that arrange for any rear of stand roads and, if needed, sections of the taxiway to be closed.
(f) The area behind and adjacent to the cone(s) of the blast will be clear of equipment and the ground must be firm and without loose tarmac, stones or other material.
ADR.OPS.D.070 High-visibility clothing
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
The aerodrome operator shall require that all personnel working outside, on foot, on the movement area shall wear high-visibility clothing.
ADR.OPS.D.075 Start-up clearances and taxi instructions
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall ensure that start-up clearances, push-back clearances, if required, and taxi instructions are coordinated with the air traffic service provider, when the aircraft movement on the apron is not managed by the air traffic service provider.
(b) In this case, the aerodrome operator in cooperation with the air traffic service provider shall establish and implement a procedure, which shall include the following:
(1) definition of the authority to issue start-up clearances;
(2) means to inform each other for start-up clearances issued;
(3) means to inform each other of push-back clearances and taxi instructions given.
ADR.OPS.D.080 Training and proficiency check programmes of marshallers and “FOLLOW-ME” drivers
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall establish and ensure the implementation of a training programme for persons providing:
(1) marshalling service;
(2) “FOLLOW-ME” guidance.
(b) The training programme shall be implemented in accordance with point ADR.OR.D.017 of Annex III.
(c) The training shall be designed to impart fundamental knowledge and practical skills related to the execution of their duties.
(d) The aerodrome operator shall ensure the implementation of a proficiency check programme for personnel referred to in point (a) in order to ensure:
(1) their continued competence;
(2) that they are aware of the rules and procedures relevant to their functions and tasks. The aerodrome operator shall ensure that persons referred to in point (a) undergo proficiency checks at intervals not exceeding 12 months since the completion of their initial training.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.080(a)(1);(2) Training and proficiency check programme of marshallers and ‘FOLLOW-ME’ drivers
ED Decision 2020/021/R
TRAINING FOR MARSHALLERS
(a) As part of the training programme, the initial training for marshallers should cover, at least, the following aspects:
(1) the role and responsibilities of the marshaller;
(2) the visual signals included in Appendix 1 ‘Signals’ to the Annex to Commission Regulation (EU) No 923/2012 of 26 September 2012;
(3) aircraft characteristics, both physical and operational, which relate to the manoeuvring of aircraft within the confines of the apron;
(4) safety procedures around the aircraft and particularly around the engines;
(5) emergency procedures in the event of an accident or an incident at the apron;
(6) low-visibility procedures;
(7) driving at the apron;
(8) emergency stop procedures for visual or advanced visual docking guidance systems, if applicable; and
(9) aircraft stand configuration and layout.
(b) Marshallers should be briefed or, if required, trained in new procedures or in changes to existing procedures.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.080(a)(2);(b)(2)(i) Training and proficiency check programme of marshallers and ‘FOLLOW-ME’ drivers
ED Decision 2020/021/R
TRAINING FOR ‘FOLLOW-ME’ VEHICLE DRIVERS
(a) As part of the training programme, the initial training for ‘FOLLOW ME’ drivers should cover, at least, the following aspects:
(1) the role and responsibilities of the ‘FOLLOW-ME’ driver;
(2) the content of AMC2 ADR.OPS.B.025 ‘Operation of vehicles’;
(3) ‘FOLLOW-ME’ specific communication procedures, including radiotelephony procedures;
(4) the visual signals included in Appendix 1 ‘Signals’ to the Annex to Commission Regulation (EU) No 923/2012 of 26 September 2012;
(5) aircraft taxiing speed and appropriate aircraft–vehicle spacing;
(6) specific procedures for guiding aircraft and/or vehicles;
(7) aircraft characteristics, both physical and operational;
(8) ‘FOLLOW-ME’ specific procedures for low-visibility operations;
(9) emergency procedures in the event of an accident or an incident; and
(10) the operation of ‘FOLLOW-ME’ vehicles and their equipment.
(b) ‘FOLLOW-ME’ vehicle drivers should be briefed or, if required, trained in new procedures or in changes to existing procedures.
ADR.OPS.D.085 Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/1234
(a) The aerodrome operator shall ensure that:
(1) persons providing taxi instructions to aircraft on the apron through radiotelephony, using the assigned aeronautical radio frequencies, are appropriately trained and qualified;
(2) the training programme is implemented in accordance with point ADR.OR.D.017 of Annex III, with the following exceptions:
(i) the initial training shall be followed by a unit training which comprises the following phases:
(A) transitional training phase, designed primarily to impart knowledge and understanding of site-specific operational procedures and task-specific aspects;
(B) on-the-job training phase, which is the final phase of unit training during which previously acquired job-related routines and skills are integrated in practice under the supervision of a qualified training instructor in a live traffic situation;
(ii) recurrent training shall be conducted at intervals not exceeding 12 calendar months and contains a review of the initial training content
(iii) refresher training shall be conducted when a person is absent from duties for a period of more than 12 months and shall include the entire initial training content.
(b) Persons referred to in point (a)(1) shall demonstrate language proficiency, at least at an operational level both in the use of phraseologies and in plain language, in accordance with point (c), in the languages used for air-ground communication at the aerodrome.
(c) The applicant shall demonstrate the ability to:
(1) communicate effectively in voice-only and in face-to-face situations;
(2) communicate on common and work-related topics with accuracy and clarity;
(3) use appropriate communicative strategies to exchange messages and to recognise and resolve misunderstandings in a general or work-related context;
(4) handle successfully the linguistic challenges presented by a complication or unexpected turn of events which occurs within the context of a routine work situation or communicative task with which they are otherwise familiar;
(5) use a dialect or accent which is intelligible to the aeronautical community.
(d) Language proficiency shall be demonstrated by a certificate issued by the organisation that conducted the assessment, attesting the language or languages, the level or levels of proficiency, and the date of the assessment.
(e) Except for persons who have demonstrated language proficiency at an expert level, the language proficiency shall be re-assessed every:
(1) four years from the date of the assessment, if the level demonstrated is operational level;
(2) six years from the date of the assessment, if the level demonstrated is extended level.
(f) The demonstration of language proficiency shall be done through a method of assessment, which shall contain:
(1) the process by which an assessment is done;
(2) the qualifications of the assessors conducting assessments of language proficiency;
(3) the appeal procedure.
(g) The aerodrome operator shall make available language training to maintain the required level of language proficiency of its personnel.
(h) The aerodrome operator shall ensure the implementation of a proficiency check programme for personnel referred to in point (a)(1) in order to ensure:
(1) their continued competence;
(2) that they are aware of the rules and procedures relevant to their functions and tasks. The aerodrome operator shall ensure that persons referred to in point (a) undergo proficiency checks at intervals not exceeding 12 months since the completion of their initial training.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.085(a)(2)(i) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
INITIAL TRAINING
The initial training should include at least the following modules:
MODULE 1. General overview of apron management
(a) Air traffic procedures relevant to aerodrome operations;
(b) Air traffic flow management (ATFM) basic knowledge;
(c) Introduction to apron management services (AMS);
(d) Description of tasks and responsibilities;
(e) Aircraft characteristics, aircraft types, and air operator identification;
(f) Basics of meteorology;
(g) Operational agreements and procedures for the cooperation between apron management services (AMS) providers and other entities;
(h) Traffic priorities at the apron: aircraft, equipment, vehicles;
(i) Basic knowledge of air navigation services (ANS);
(j) Aeronautical information publication (AIP).
MODULE 2. Aeronautical law
(a) Introduction to aeronautical law;
(b) International aviation bodies;
(c) National aviation bodies;
(d) Overview of the relevant national and international legislation.
MODULE 3. Apron management services (AMS) equipment
(a) IT systems;
(b) Communication systems;
(c) Surveillance systems, such as closed-circuit television (CCTV), surface movement radar (SMR), etc.;
(d) Airfield lighting systems relevant to the provision of AMS;
(e) Visual/advanced visual docking guidance systems;
(f) Backup systems.
MODULE 4. Communication procedures and phraseology
(a) Radiotelephony communication phraseology;
(b) Communication procedures during emergencies;
(c) Radio communication with aircraft;
(d) Other communications on the apron.
MODULE 5. Procedures for arriving aircraft
(a) Coordination with ATS and handover of aircraft between ATS and AMS;
(b) Aircraft taxiing;
(c) Holding areas;
(d) Recording of on-block time;
(e) Aerodrome collaborative decision making (A-CDM) procedures.
MODULE 6. Procedures for departing aircraft
(a) Start-up clearances;
(b) Push-back, towing;
(c) Aircraft taxiing;
(d) Coordination with ATS and handover of aircraft between ATS and AMS;
(e) Recording of off-block time;
(f) Aerodrome collaborative decision making (A-CDM) procedures.
MODULE 7. Procedures for emergencies and incidents
(a) Awareness of the aerodrome emergency plan;
(b) Alerting of emergency services;
(c) Aircraft emergencies;
(d) Aircraft incidents at the apron;
(e) Other emergencies and incidents at the apron.
MODULE 8. Safety awareness
(a) Human factors;
(b) Basics of safety management;
(c) Internal and/or aerodrome safety management system (SMS).
MODULE 9. Stand allocation
(a) Factors that affect stand allocation to aircraft;
(b) Stand allocation procedures.
MODULE 10. Ground-servicing of aircraft
(a) Turn-around process overview;
(b) Special ground-servicing procedures.
MODULE 11. Coordination between apron management services (AMS) and air traffic services (ATS) providers
(a) Written agreement between AMS and ATS providers;
(b) Operational procedures for the cooperation between AMS and ATS;
(c) Communication with ATS;
(d) Areas of responsibility of the AMS and the ATS providers.
MODULE 12. All-weather operations
(a) Visibility conditions;
(b) Adverse weather procedures;
(c) Winter operations.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.085(a)(2)(ii) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
UNIT TRAINING
The unit training should include the following subjects:
(a) Local operational agreements;
(b) Aerodrome layout;
(c) Local aerodrome procedures, included in the aerodrome manual, as regards:
(1) low visibility,
(2) adverse weather,
(3) aerodrome emergency plan,
(4) coordination with the ATS unit,
(5) coordination with the aerodrome operator,
(6) handover points,
(7) contingency procedures in case of systems’ failure.
When the training programme includes on-the-job training, it should include the provision of taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony under the supervision of an appropriately qualified and experienced instructor.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
GENERAL
(a) The language proficiency assessment should be designed to reflect the tasks undertaken, but with special focus on the knowledge of the language rather than on the knowledge of the operational procedures.
(b) The assessment should determine the applicant’s ability to:
(1) communicate effectively by using standard radiotelephony phraseology;
(2) deliver and understand messages in plain language in both usual and unusual situations that require departure from standard radiotelephony phraseology;
(3) demonstrate the linguistic ability in dealing with an unexpected turn of events, and in correcting apparent misunderstandings.
AMC2 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2021/003/R
ASSESSMENT
(a) The assessment should comprise the following three elements:
(1) listening: assessment of comprehension;
(2) speaking: assessment of pronunciation, fluency, structure and vocabulary; and
(3) interaction.
(b) The switch between phraseology and plain language should be assessed in relation to listening and speaking proficiency.
(c) When the assessment is not conducted in a face-to-face situation, appropriate technologies should be used for the assessment of the person’s ability to listen and speak, and to enable interactions.
(d) The assessment should also be conducted during training activities or during proficiency checks, with prior notification given to the person concerned.
(e) The assessment should be conducted using the rating scale in AMC1 ADR.OPS.B.029(b).
AMC3 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSORS
(a) The persons responsible for the language proficiency assessment should be appropriately trained and qualified.
(b) The language proficiency assessors should undergo regular refresher training in the assessment of language skills.
(c) The language proficiency assessors should not conduct language proficiency assessments of persons to whom they have provided language training, or whenever, for any other reason, their objectivity may be affected.
AMC4 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
CRITERIA FOR THE ACCEPTABILITY OF LANGUAGE ASSESSMENT ORGANISATIONS
(a) If the language assessment organisation provides also language training, there should be a clear and documented separation between the two activities.
(b) The language assessment organisation should employ a sufficient number of qualified interlocutors and language proficiency assessors to administer the tests.
(c) The assessment documentation should include at least the following:
(1) assessment objectives;
(2) assessment layout, timescale, technologies used, assessment samples, voice samples;
(3) assessment criteria and standards (at least for the ‘operational’, ‘extended’ and ‘expert’ level);
(4) documentation that demonstrates the assessment validity, relevance and reliability for the ‘operational’, ‘extended’ and ‘expert’ level;
(5) procedures to ensure that language assessments are standardised within the organisation and across apron management services (AMS) organisations, aerodrome organisations, and the air traffic control (ATC) community;
(6) assessment procedures and responsibilities:
(i) preparation of individual assessments;
(ii) administration: location(s), identity check and invigilation, assessment discipline, confidentiality/security;
(iii) reporting and documentation provided to the aerodrome operator and to the organisation responsible for the provision of AMS or to the applicant, including sample certificates; and
(iv) retention of documents and records.
(d) The assessment documentation and records should be kept for a period of time determined by the Competent Authority and made available to the Competent Authority upon request.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSMENT
The aim of the assessment is to determine the ability of a person to speak and understand the language(s) used for radiotelephony communications.
(a) The assessment includes:
(1) voice-only or face-to-face situations;
(2) common, concrete, and work-related topics.
(b) The assessment determines the applicant’s ability to speak and listen. A mere assessment of the applicant’s knowledge of grammar as well as their reading and writing skills is not appropriate.
(c) The assessment determines the language skills of the applicant in the following areas:
(1) pronunciation:
(i) the extent to which the pronunciation, stress, rhythm and intonation are influenced by the applicant’s native language or national variations;
(ii) how much they interfere with ease of understanding;
(2) structure:
(i) the ability of the applicant to use both basic and complex grammatical structures;
(ii) the extent to which the errors the applicant makes interfere with the intended meaning;
(3) vocabulary:
(i) the range and accuracy of the vocabulary used;
(ii) the ability of the applicant to paraphrase successfully when they lack the vocabulary;
(4) fluency:
(i) tempo;
(ii) hesitancy;
(iii) rehearsed versus spontaneous speech;
(iv) use of discourse markers and connectors;
(5) comprehension:
(i) of common, concrete, and work-related topics;
(ii) when confronted with a linguistic or situational complication or an unexpected turn of events;
(6) interactions:
(i) quality of response (immediate, appropriate, and informative);
(ii) the ability to initiate and maintain short conversations:
(A) on common, concrete, and work-related topics;
(B) when dealing with an unexpected turn of events;
(iii) the ability to deal with apparent misunderstandings by checking, confirming, or clarifying.
The accent or the variety of accents used in the test material needs to be sufficiently intelligible for an international community of users.
GM2 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY ASSESSORS
(a) The preferred approach for a language proficiency assessment is to form an assessment team that consists of an operational expert and a language expert.
(b) The language proficiency assessors need to be trained in the requirements specific to the language proficiency assessment, as well as to assessment and interlocution techniques.
GM3 ADR.OPS.D.085(f) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
Further guidance on the assessment of language proficiency may be found in ICAO Doc 9835 ‘Manual on the Implementation of ICAO Language Proficiency Requirements’.
AMC1 ADR.OPS.D.085(g) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
LANGUAGE TRAINING
(a) Language training should contain communication in a job-related context, and in particular to the handling of abnormal and emergency situations and the conduct of non-routine coordination with colleagues, aircrews and technical staff.
(b) Emphasis should be placed on listening comprehension, speaking interaction and vocabulary building.
GM1 ADR.OPS.D.085(g) Training and proficiency check programme of personnel providing taxi instructions to aircraft through radiotelephony
ED Decision 2020/021/R
LANGUAGE TRAINING
A purely routine use of the language through phraseology, standard procedures and limited social contact only maintains a limited core usage of the language which might be inadequate for managing unexpected and abnormal situations.
Language proficiency erosion (language attrition) occurs rapidly over time: the lower the initial level, the faster the rate of erosion — unless systematic strategies and a high degree of motivation counteract this trend.
It is documented that one’s language and communicative proficiency, even in one’s native language, deteriorates sharply under stress; therefore, regular participation in language training is recommended.
