SMS & IS-BAO Questions

Are you ready?   

• Annex 6 Part II of the IBAC SARP implementation date of an SMS for foreign corporate operators is 18 Nov, 2010
• Don’t get caught in the rush.  Will you have to say to your passengers “Sorry, we can’t fly there”?  We can help

Will a US operator be required to do this?

• It is up to each signatory country to implement this requirement.   All signatory countries are expected to implement this in the near future and Bermuda has already. The US is a signatory country, and in some form, will as well 
• Although SMS is not currently a US regulatory requirement, the FAA is publishing guidance documents that align with ICAO requirements and an Aviation Rulemaking Committee (ARC) has been formed
• Part 91.703 states US operators must comply with the regulations of the country they operate in. So, even though it is not currently implemented in the US, it will be required to operate in those countries that have. An example is the requirement for 406 MHz ELT’s if operating into Europe which is not presently a US requirement

How do you implement it?

• So far the FAA has no procedure in place to approve a private operator’s SMS system
• IS-BAO and its SMS have been recognized by the European Union as an industry standard for international operations. You can develop your own SMS, but who will approve it? 
• An IS-BAO Registration Certificate will satisfy the requirement for proof of having an SMS in place.

What countries will be included?

• All ICAO signatories will require an approved SMS system to operate in their airspace. This includes Canada, Mexico, and eventually the US, not just European countries.   

Where can I find FAA information?

• The FAA SMS web site is located here

If you have any other questions please contact me.