This Opinion addresses an issue related to the implementation of the new approach classification, as introduced by Amendment 11-B to ICAO Annex 14, and communicated by ICAO in State letter AN 4/1.2.24-13/20. The applicability date of Amendment 11-B was 13 November 2014.
The specific objective of this Opinion is to maintain and, for specific types of runways (non-instrument and non-precision), enhnace the high level of safety. It facilitates performance-based navigation approach operations with vertical guidance to be applied at non-precision approach runways, and instrument approach operations to be associated with non-instrument runways without the need in both cases to upgrade runway infrastructure.
This Opinion proposes changes to the definitions of ‘instrument runway’ and ‘non-instrument runway’ included in Regulation (EU) No 139/2014.
The proposed changes are expected to ensure compliance with ICAO and increase safety and cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the revised definitions will increase accessibility to those aerodromes where approach procedures are impaired by weather conditions and topological limitations due to difficult terrain surrounding the aerodrome.
