Runway in Sight.
Adding an aircraft to the AOC shouldn't be too difficult but it will depend on what work needs to be undertaken. For example if you have been a short haul operator who suddenly wants to add a 747 to the AOC be prepared for a bit of work. You will have to change your ops manuals and satisfy the CAA that you have thought of everything.
You have set up a management system for the fleet with good experienced crews. Engineering exeperience, support and maintenance is in place. Operational procedures are adapted. For example long haul FTL's arr differant from short haul. Do you have experienced ops staff?
Do you have ETOPS procedures in place? Are the crew trained in Desert Survival (you could be flying to Africa now with your extended AOC / Aircraft). Do your manuals give advice on food/drink/social behaviour to your crews down route in your new far flung destinations? What about Security issues if your staying in unusual high risk places.
The list is endless and is all dependant on what you are adding and where. There is normally a period of consultation and many companys will contract in somebody with the relevant experience to audit their books and draw up a list of work that is required.
Once you've done that the Authority will charge you a nice fee for consulting on what you have prepared and what you need to still do.
Still hopefully it's worth it in the end!
Edited to say I just realised my 747 is ETOPS!!!
