PPRuNe Forums - View Single Post - CAA to allow Flight Training from Unlicensed Aerodromes
Old 22nd Feb 2010, 17:58
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homeguard
 
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Unlicensed Training Airfields

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Having studied the LAASG 'Draft code of Practice' on the face of it no one should think that it is a matter of operating out of anywhere without a care.

There is a continued reference within the document to standards already in place for licensed aerodromes. With regard to provision of Emergency Services, by another example, that section uses such phrases as; 'capable' and 'suitable' and 'sufficient people with the knowledge...'. and 'clearly marked'. Who will be the judge of all this. The revision of CAP428 is to be the guidance.

Unless any organisation wishes to stick its neck on the block it is going to be wise to meet nearly all if not all the current licenced aerodrome standards.

The recommended Minimum Physical Characteristics and also detailed minimum clearances from obstructions are part of the 'code of practice'. Many parts of the code are difficult to seperate from that required of a small licenced aerodrome. To ensure 'duty of care' is achieved satisfactorily the process may also require an expensive qualified survey.

It would seem difficult if not impossible, in my view, to demonstrate to an investigator following an incident why the unlicenced safety management system should be different from that in place for licenced aerodromes close by. The great gain will be to be able to modify the full current requirements to meet the type of operations actually undertaken. That is not the same as saying that training can be undertaken without a care!

Planning Permission will, of course, be required owing to any change of use. That I can assure you will not be easy!
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