Aerodrome Inspections - S2 - C6

Question 1

Why are aerodrome inspections carried out?

Answer 1

• ATC becomes aware of any unserviceabilities or obstructions that may affect the use of the aerodrome and are able to supply pilots with accurate Essential Aerodrome Information;
• unserviceabilities or obstructions that are observed may receive attention.

Question 2

When should regular aerodrome surface inspections take place?

Answer 2

At least one regular inspection should be made daily.
24 hour aerodromes
- this should be as soon as practicable after first light.
non 24-hour aerodromes
- stations the inspection should take place before flying commences.
A further inspection should take place before night flying.

Question 3

When should additional aerodrome surface inspections take place? (6)

Answer 3

• at cessation of work on the manoeuvring area;
• when a runway not previously inspected is brought into use;
• following an aircraft accident;
• following an abandoned take-off by a turbine engined aircraft due to engine malfunction, or by any aircraft due to burst tyres;
• during snow and ice conditions as frequently as weather conditions warrant;
• when considered necessary by ATC, the Aerodrome Operator or as detailed in local instructions.

Question 4

What should an inspection be checking?

Answer 4

• the runways, stopways, clearways, taxiways and holding areas are free from obstructions, collections of loose stones, etc;
• temporary obstructions that exist on, or adjacent to, the runways or taxiways are properly marked or lighted;
• bad ground (particularly on non-runway aerodromes) is adequately marked;
• runway indicator boards, traffic signs, boundary markers, etc., are serviceable and in position.

Question 5

When should aerodrome lighting inspections be completed?

Answer 5

Before any night flying