Section 2, Chapter 6 - Aerodrome Inspections

Question 1

What are the responsibilities and purposes of aerodrome inspections?

Answer 1

• Responsibility: The Aerodrome Operator is responsible for all aerodrome inspections, though duties may be delegated to the ATC unit at some aerodromes.
• Purpose:
  1. Ensure ATC is aware of any unserviceabilities or obstructions that may affect aerodrome use.
  2. Provide pilots with accurate Essential Aerodrome Information.
  3. Ensure observed unserviceabilities or obstructions receive attention.
• Reference: Comprehensive details are found in CAP 168.

Question 2

What are the guidelines for regular aerodrome surface inspections?

Answer 2

• Frequency: At least one regular inspection should be made daily.
• 24-Hour Aerodromes: Inspection should be as soon as practicable after first light.
• Non 24-Hour Aerodromes: Inspection should take place before flying commences.
• Night Flying: A further inspection should occur before night flying.

Question 3

When should additional aerodrome surface inspections be conducted?

Answer 3

• Cessation of Work: After work on the manoeuvring area stops.
• New Runway Use: When a runway not previously inspected is brought into use.
• Aircraft Accident: Following an aircraft accident.
• Abandoned Take-Off:
  1. By a turbine-engined aircraft due to engine malfunction.
  2. By any aircraft due to burst tyres.
• Snow and Ice Conditions: As frequently as weather conditions warrant.
• Necessity: When considered necessary by ATC, the Aerodrome Operator, or as detailed in local instructions.

Question 4

What areas should be covered during aerodrome surface inspections?

Answer 4

• Runway-in-Use: Inspect the current runway-in-use.
• Future Use: Inspect runways likely to be used before the next regular inspection.
• Associated Areas: Include prepared strips, clearways, stopways, and appropriate taxiways.

Question 5

How should aerodrome surface inspections be conducted and reported?

Answer 5

• Boundary Limit: The inspector is not normally required to go outside the aerodrome boundary.
• Inspection Method: Use a vehicle driven slowly over the inspection area, stopping as necessary for closer inspection of individual items.
• Reporting: Findings should be reported in accordance with MATS Part 2.

Question 6

What checks should be made during aerodrome surface inspections under normal conditions?

Answer 6

• Ensure runways, stopways, clearways, taxiways, and holding areas are free from obstructions and loose stones.
• Confirm temporary obstructions on or near runways/taxiways are properly marked or lighted.
• Check that bad ground, especially on non-runway aerodromes, is adequately marked.
• Verify that runway indicator boards, traffic signs, boundary markers, etc., are serviceable and in position.
• Note the exact position of any observed obstruction or unserviceability and report it to the responsible section.

Question 7

What additional checks should be made during aerodrome surface inspections in snow and ice conditions?

Answer 7

• Carry out normal condition checks as much as possible.
• Ensure badly rutted or frozen ground is adequately marked.
• Confirm runways and taxiways are delineated if covered with snow or ice, and note the extent of sweeping and sanding.
• Measurement and reporting of snow, slush, and ice conditions are detailed in Chapter 7.
• Responsibility for clearing, sanding, and marking remains with the Aerodrome Operator, who should maintain close liaison with ATC.

Question 8

When should aerodrome lighting be inspected, and who is responsible?

Answer 8

• Timing: Inspect aerodrome lighting before night flying commences.
• Responsibility: The Aerodrome Operator is responsible for aerodrome lighting inspections.
• Details: Full details are contained in CAP 168.

Question 9

How should unserviceabilities or obstructions identified during aerodrome inspections be reported?

Answer 9

• Recording: Record unserviceabilities or obstructions on the appropriate form or log.
• Dissemination: Disseminate information according to MATS Part 2.
• Urgent Attention: If urgent attention is necessary (e.g., for marking, lighting, or immediate repair), pass details to the responsible section by telephone as per local arrangements.