AIRSIDE VEHICLE OPERATIONS
PROGRAM AND PROCEDURES
NIAGARA DISTRICT AIRPORT
Certificate Number
5151-1-152
Len O Connor
Airport Manager
Niagara District Airport
P.O. Box 640
Virgil, ON
L0S 1T0
Telephone
(905) 684-7447
Facsimile
(905) 905-684-2433
Email
[email protected]
Niagara District Airport
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................... iii
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1. PROGRAM OVERVIEW ................................................................................................... 1
1.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
1.2 ADMINISTRATION.................................................................................................... 1
1.3 EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITES .............................................................................. 1
1.4 DRIVER’S LICENCE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................. 2
1.5 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES ................................................................................... 2
1.5.2 LIGHTING ............................................................................................................... 2
1.5.3 BEACONS ................................................................................................................ 2
1.5.4 BEACON INSTALLATION .................................................................................... 2
1.6 RADIO FREQUENCIES ............................................................................................. 3
1.6.1 CALL SIGN .............................................................................................................. 3
2. AVOP APPLICATION AND RENEWAL ......................................................................... 1
2.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
2.2 APPLYING FOR AN AVOP ....................................................................................... 1
2.3 FEES ............................................................................................................................. 1
2.3.1 LATE/CANCELLATION FEE ................................................................................ 1
2.4 AVOP PERMITS ......................................................................................................... 1
2.5 APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................ 1
2.6 TRAINING ................................................................................................................... 2
2.7 TESTING TO OBTAIN AN AVOP ............................................................................ 2
2.7.1 WRITTEN TEST ...................................................................................................... 2
2.7.2 REWRITING THE TEST ......................................................................................... 2
2.7.3 PRACTICAL TEST .................................................................................................. 2
2.7.5 RETAKING THE PRACTICAL TEST.................................................................... 3
2.8 RENEWING A PERMIT ............................................................................................. 3
2.9 TERMINATION OF PERMIT ..................................................................................... 3
2.10
PERMIT IS NON-TRANSFERABLE ..................................................................... 3
2.11
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS.................................................................................. 3
2.12
LOST/STOLEN/DESTROYED CARDS ................................................................. 3
3. ENFORCEMENT, INFRACTIONS AND APPEALS ....................................................... 1
3.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
3.2 ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS ..................................................................................... 1
3.3 DEMERIT POINTS ..................................................................................................... 1
3.3.1 SURRENDERING A PERMIT ................................................................................ 1
3.4 DRIVER’S LICENCE SUSPENSION ......................................................................... 1
3.5
SMOKING................................................................................................................... 2
3.6 ALCOHOL, MEDICATION OR DRUGS ................................................................... 2
4. SAFETY REQUIREMENTS AND PRACTICES ............................................................. 1
4.1 INTRODUCTION ........................................................................................................ 1
4.1.2 ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS ............................................................................ 1
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4.1.3 INTERFERENCE OF TRAFFIC ............................................................................. 1
4.1.4 ESCORTING OF PASSENGERS ............................................................................ 1
4.1.5 PEDESTRIANS ........................................................................................................ 1
4.1.6 PERSONAL ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES ......................................................... 1
4.1.7 WEARING SAFETY VESTS .................................................................................. 1
4.1.8 DRIVER DISORIENTATION ................................................................................. 1
4.1.9 EQUIPMENT FAILURE.......................................................................................... 1
4.2 HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS .................................................................................... 2
4.2.1 FOD........................................................................................................................... 2
4.2.2 AIRCRAFT ENGINES ............................................................................................. 2
5. AIRSIDE RULES OF THE ROAD .................................................................................... 1
5.1 GENERAL.................................................................................................................... 1
5.2 RIGHT OF WAY ......................................................................................................... 1
5.3 UNSAFE OPERATION ............................................................................................... 1
5.4 MANOEUVRING AREA ............................................................................................ 1
5.5 SPEED LIMIT .............................................................................................................. 1
5.6 AIRCRAFT CUT-OFF ................................................................................................. 1
5.6.1 ESCORTING VEHICLES ........................................................................................ 1
5.7 APRON......................................................................................................................... 2
5.8 HELICOPTER TRAFFIC ............................................................................................ 2
5.9 4-WAY FLASHERS .................................................................................................... 2
5.10
OPERATIONS ON MANOEUVRING AREAS (Runways and Taxiways) ............ 2
5.11
WORKING RADIO.................................................................................................. 2
6. RADIOTELEPHONE PROCEDURES ............................................................................... 1
6.1 FLIGHT SERVICE STATION OPEN ......................................................................... 1
6.2 FLIGHT SERVICE STATION CLOSED .................................................................... 2
6.3 RADIO FAILURE ........................................................................................................ 3
7. SIGNS AND LIGHTS ......................................................................................................... 1
7.1 SIGNS ........................................................................................................................... 1
7.2 LIGHTING ................................................................................................................... 1
8. MAP ..................................................................................................................................... 1
APPENDIX A – DEMERIT POINT SYSTEM.......................................................................... 1
APPENDIX B - DEFINITIONS ................................................................................................ 1
APPENDIX C – SAMPLE QUESTIONS .................................................................................. 1
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PROGRAM OVERVIEW
1.1
INTRODUCTION
The Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit (AVOP) Program establishes the standards by which
vehicles operating at Niagara District Airport must be operated, equipped and marked.
This plan describes:
The AVOP Program, including:
 permit application and renewal procedures
 vehicle licencing, marking, and lighting requirements
 AVOP Program enforcement, infractions and appeals
 airside surfaces at the airport and the pavement markings, signage, and lighting used on
each
 traffic directives for driving on all airside surfaces at the airport
 general airside safety practices and requirements
 radiotelephone protocols used at Niagara District Airport.
Content in this plan complies with the standards and practices published in Transport Canada’s
Aerodrome Standards and Recommended Practices TP 312.
1.2
ADMINISTRATION
The Niagara District Airport Commission, as the airport operator, reserves the right to enforce and
amend from time to time the AVOP Program at the Niagara District Airport. Where there is a
discrepancy between these directives and an act, law or regulation, the appropriate legislation
shall supersede these directives.
There are two types of AVOP permits. A “D/A” Permit allows a driver to operate a self-propelled
vehicle on the aprons only. A “D” Permit allows an operator to drive anywhere on the airport in the
performance of their duties. Examples of D holders include airport staff and employees of
companies who have rented portions of the airport requiring vehicle escort on the manoeuvring
areas.
Both types of permits are issued at the sole discretion of the Niagara District Airport Commission.
Enforcement authority is delegated to the Airport Manager.
1.3
EMPLOYER RESPONSIBILITES
For the purposes of the AVOP Program, employers are defined as any airport tenants, Niagara
District Airport contractors and support service companies.
Where the delivery of these services requires personnel to drive airside for the performance of
job-related duties, it is the employer’s responsibility to:
provide information about the AVOP Program to employees and
ensure that employees:
 are in compliance with all PDL requirements and restrictions
 receive adequate airside driver training.
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DRIVER’S LICENCE REQUIREMENTS
1.4
All AVOP holders must hold a valid provincial or territorial driver’s licence.
1.5
DRIVER RESPONSIBILITIES
All AVOP holders shall comply with the following:




1.5.2
Vehicle operators shall ensure that they are qualified and trained to operate the
equipment they are using airside
Vehicle operators are responsible for any equipment or vehicle they take airside.
Vehicles must be in sound mechanical condition and meet all safety and regulatory
requirements as described in this book.
Vehicle operators shall carry their AVOP permit on the outside of their clothing with the
picture facing out.
When requested to do so by airport staff AVOP holders must present the following
documents:
o a valid AVOP
o A valid provincial driver’s licence (PDL)
LIGHTING
All vehicle lights shall be in good working order.
1.5.3
BEACONS
All vehicles operated or driven in the Manoeuvring Area must be equipped with a rotating or
pulsing amber warning light. The beacon’s enclosing globe shall be “aviation yellow” for all
vehicles except emergency vehicles. Beacons must be turned on at all times while vehicles are
in motion on airside surfaces.
An operating beacon indicates that the operator is in the vehicle and prepared to move.
Note: The only vehicles allowed to operate on the manoeuvring area without a beacon are those
under escort.
1.5.4
BEACON INSTALLATION
Rotating beacons shall be mounted on the roof of a vehicle, or in any other location that enables
the beam or pulse to be seen by aircraft or surface traffic from any position within 360° of the
vehicle. Beacons must rotate at a constant speed no greater than 90 rotations per minutes
(RPMs) as per the Aerodrome Standards and Recommended Practices TP 312.
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1.6
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RADIO FREQUENCIES
Vehicles operating in the Manoeuvring Area must be equipped with authorized multi-dial
transceivers capable of operating on 121.8 MHz and 123.25 Mhz.
1.6.1
CALL SIGN
Each vehicle operating in the Manoeuvring Area must have a call sign. A call sign uniquely
identifies each vehicle in its communication with FSS.
Application forms for the issuance of a call sign must be obtained from the Airport Manager. The
Airport Manager will verify the requirement to operate in the Manoeuvring Area prior to
authorizing and issuing the call sign.
Vehicles driving airside under escort do not require call signs.
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AVOP APPLICATION AND RENEWAL
2.1
INTRODUCTION
This section describe Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit (AVOP) application and renewal
requirement.
2.2
APPLYING FOR AN AVOP
AVOP applicants must demonstrate both a need and a right to drive airside. The Airport Manager
will determine an applicant’s need to drive airside by assessing the applicant’s job related duties
and the frequency of required airside access.
Applications for an AVOP are available at the Airport Administration Office
All applicants for a D Permit require a Radiotelephone Operator’s Restricted Certificate
(Aeronautical)
All applicants must show a need and a right to drive airside.
All applicants must possess a valid PDL. (G2 licence not accepted)
2.3
FEES
The fee for a D/A AVOP Permit is $20.00 and for a D AVOP is $25.00. The fee to replace a
lost/stolen/destroyed AVOP card is $15.00. The AVOP Permit will not be issued until payment is
made to the Niagara District Airport Commission.
2.3.1
LATE/CANCELLATION FEE
If an applicant cancels a scheduled practical test less than two working days prior to the test date,
or fails to appear for a scheduled practical test, the NDAC shall charge the applicant a
late/cancellation administrative fee. The AVOP applicant is responsible for paying the fee
($15.00 plus HST totaling $16.95). The NDAC shall not grant AVOP driving privileges to an
applicant with unpaid late/cancellation fees.
2.4
AVOP PERMITS
Niagara District Airport issues two types of AVOP permits. Each permit authorizes driving in the
following specific areas of the airport:
DA:
Aprons and other uncontrolled airside surfaces. DA permit holders are prohibited from
entering the Manoeuvring Area unless under escort by a D permit holder.
D:
The Manoeuvring Area
2.5
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
To obtain a DA permit applicants must:
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complete a “Niagara District Airport Application for an Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit”
possess a valid provincial driver’s licence (PDL)
demonstrate their understanding of these directives by successfully completing a written test.
In addition to the requirements listed above, D permit applicants must:



complete Airside Vehicle Operator’s training
hold a Radiotelephone Operator’s Restricted Certificate (Aeronautical)
successfully complete a practical test
2.6
TRAINING
Applicants for a D permit shall have practical airside driving experience prior to taking the driving
test.
Any person with a valid PDL may drive airside for the purposes of training only while
accompanied by an individual with a valid PDL and AVOP permit appropriate to the training area.
The accompanying individual shall be seated beside the trainee in the same vehicle and assume
all responsibility for the vehicle’s operation.
Training will be available at the Airport Administration office on Tuesdays in the morning by
appointment only by calling the office at 905-684-7447 ext 10.
Applicants for a D/A permit must obtain a copy of these directives by email or in person from
airport administration prior to writing the test. Tests will be administered every Tuesday morning
at 11:00 a.m.
2.7
TESTING TO OBTAIN AN AVOP
Applicants must pass a written test. The passing mark on this test will be 80%.
Applicants for a D AVOP must also pass a driving test.
2.7.1 WRITTEN TEST
DA permit written tests consist of 15 questions relevant to the permit type. The D permit test
consists of 25 questions.
2.7.2
REWRITING THE TEST
Applicants who fail to pass the written test may rewrite the test after a one week waiting period.
The Niagara District Airport Commission reserves the right to deny AVOP privileges to an
applicant who fails the written test three times.
2.7.3 PRACTICAL TEST
The practical test must be completed within three month of successful completion of the written
test. If the practical test was not administered within the three month period, the applicant must
rewrite the test.
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2.7.5 RETAKING THE PRACTICAL TEST
Individuals who do not successfully complete the practical test may retake it. The NDAC
reserves the right to deny an applicant the option of taking the test a third time.
2.8
RENEWING A PERMIT
D/A and D AVOPs expire every 5 years. Refresher testing will be done before an AVOP
renewal is issued.
Holders of D AVOP permits who have not used their permit for at least one year must pass both a
written and a driving test. Owners or managers of companies who employ D AVOP permit
holders are responsible for ensuring that the permits are valid.
2.9
TERMINATION OF PERMIT
The AVOP permit is the property of the Niagara District Airport Commission. It is the
responsibility of the permit holder to return the permit to the Airport Manager when the permit is
no longer required or the permit holder is informed in writing by the Airport Manager that the
permit holder’s privileges have been revoked. Where the permit has been issued to an
employee, e.g. a limousine driver, the company of the employee shall be responsible for
collecting and returning the AVOP permit.
The Airport Manager shall have the authority to revoke a permit if it is apparent that the holder of
a permit no longer requires airside access. An example would be an employee of an operator at
the airport whose employment has terminated. Where a permit is revoked, the permit holder and
the company of employment will be notified in writing.
2.10
PERMIT IS NON-TRANSFERABLE
Neither the D AVOP nor D/A AVOP are transferable. The permit holder must display the permit
at all times when driving airside and must show it to the Airport Manager or his designate when
requested.
2.11
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS
AVOP holders must be qualified to operate the vehicle they are driving. Anyone driving airside
must ensure that the vehicle they are driving is in a safe condition and free from any leaks and be
driven in a safe manner.
2.12
LOST/STOLEN/DESTROYED CARDS
All lost/stolen/destroyed cards must be reported to the Airport Administrator immediately at 905684-7447 ext 10.
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ENFORCEMENT, INFRACTIONS AND APPEALS
3.1
INTRODUCTION
You must follow the “rules of the road” just as you would on any city street. Airport staff will
prepare reports on infractions to be reviewed by the Airport Manager who has the authority to
suspend or revoke your AVOP privileges should you violate the rules and regulations. Duly
authorized airport personnel have the authority to issue instructions for safety or operational
reasons.
Enforcement includes periodic spot checks.
The NDAC reserves the right to:
 test drivers at any time without notice to the driver
 suspend AVOP privileges for the violation of any directives described herein
 require an AVOP holder to complete additional training and testing.
3.2
ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
The following personnel are authorized to enforce the AVOP program:
 airport staff
3.3
DEMERIT POINTS
Drivers incur demerit points for each violation; points are assigned against the driver’s AVOP.
Multiple violations arising from the same incident will result in multiple points on record.
Demerit points remain on the driver’s AVOP record for either 12, 24 or 36 months, depending on
the type of violation. AVOP infractions are not applied to provincial or territorial driver’s licence.
Violations fall into three categories:
 Minor
 Major
 Gross Misconduct
For details, see Appendix A,
3.3.1
SURRENDERING A PERMIT
AVOP permit holders operating vehicles airside shall surrender their AVOP to administration
when requested by airport staff.
Depending on the circumstances of surrender, the AVOP holder may be subject to penalties and
sanctions.
3.4
DRIVER’S LICENCE SUSPENSION
Temporary or permanent suspension of a provincial or territorial driver’s licence invalidates an
AVOP and must be immediately reported in writing to the Airport Manager.
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3.5
SMOKING
Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere airside including inside vehicles.
Charges for non-compliance will be made under the Canadian Aviation Regulations.
3.6
ALCOHOL, MEDICATION OR DRUGS
No person operating a vehicle shall be under the influence of any substance, including alcohol,
medication or illicit drugs. Operating a vehicle, whether in motion or not, while consuming or
under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol is an offence under the Criminal Code of Canada
and the Highway Traffic Act.
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SAFETY REQUIREMENTS AND PRACTICES
4.1
INTRODUCTION
Safety is the first responsibility of all airside vehicle operators. No person shall operate a vehicle
in an airside area in a manner dangerous to aircraft, equipment, persons or vehicles. At no time
do operational considerations, such as time pressures, allow drivers to disobey any of the
directives in the plan.
4.1.2 ACCIDENTS AND INCIDENTS
Drivers shall report all accidents on the ground involving vehicles, pedestrians or aircraft resulting
in:
 Personal injury
 Damage to aircraft, vehicles, equipment or property
to the Airport Manager immediately at 905-684-7447 ext. 11 or 905-933-6031
This directive supersedes any tenant or company directive.
4.1.3 INTERFERENCE OF TRAFFIC
No person on the apron shall interfere with the free movement of airport traffic
4.1.4 ESCORTING OF PASSENGERS
Individual tour or charter operators are responsible for escorting their passengers to and from the
aircraft.
4.1.5 PEDESTRIANS
Pedestrians are not allowed on manoeuvring areas without permission.
4.1.6 PERSONAL ENTERTAINMENT DEVICES
The use of personal entertainment devices with earphones or headsets is prohibited airside.
4.1.7
WEARING SAFETY VESTS
All personnel are recommended to wear a reflective safety vest when performing their assigned
duties on the Movement Area.
This recommendation applies to:
 all persons on foot in the Movement Area
 drivers or passengers in vehicles or equipment open to the elements, such as tractors.
4.1.8
DRIVER DISORIENTATION
If vehicle operators become lost or confused while driving airside, they shall:
 stop the vehicle
 immediately notify the FSS
4.1.9
EQUIPMENT FAILURE
If equipment breaks down, operators shall immediately notify the FSS of their location and
difficulty and request assistance.
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HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS
4.2.1 FOD
All vehicle operators shall ensure that their vehicles do not deposit any debris on the airside (such
as mud and gravel). Any debris can seriously damage aircraft engines. Removing FOD is the
responsibility of everyone.
4.2.2 AIRCRAFT ENGINES
Do not pass in front of or behind an aircraft with its engines operating unless the wheels are
chocked or the marshaller waves permission. AVOP Permit holders are encouraged to report to
the Airport Manager the vehicle make, model, licence number and the time of incursion of
vehicles they identify as operating frequently on the airside without an AVOP permit.
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AIRSIDE RULES OF THE ROAD
5.1
GENERAL
Drivers must be alert at all times for airside vehicles, including airplanes that may approach from
any direction.
5.2
RIGHT OF WAY
All vehicle operators shall give right of way to the following order of priority:
1. aircraft;
2. pedestrians;
3. emergency vehicles with warning devices operating;
4. snow removal or maintenance equipment in the performance of their duties;
5. vehicles towing aircraft; and
6. aircraft fuelling vehicles.
5.3
UNSAFE OPERATION
Your AVOP will be revoked immediately if you operate your vehicle in an unsafe or reckless
manner. Some examples are:
 Runway Incursion;
 Impaired Driving;
 Excessive Speed; or
 Failure to yield to aircraft or emergency vehicles
5.4
MANOEUVRING AREA
D/A AVOP holders shall not enter any manoeuvring area. Entrances to taxiways are marked with
double amber lights.
5.5
SPEED LIMIT
Speed Limit on aprons is 25 km/h or 10km within 25 ft. of any aircraft.
5.6
AIRCRAFT CUT-OFF
An aircraft cut-off occurs when either an aircraft pilot or an aircraft tow crew must:
 Deviate from their planned course or adjust the aircraft or tow speed in order to maintain
a safe distance from a vehicle
 Alter their course to avoid a collision or the possibility of a collision with a vehicle
5.6.1 ESCORTING VEHICLES
The driver of the vehicle providing the escort shall comply with the following requirements:
 possess a valid AVOP permit and provincial driver’s licence
 ensure that the escorting vehicle has the required insurance
 escort a maximum of 5
 ensure that the driver of the escorted vehicle is formally briefed regarding the procedures
and requirements outlined in this plan
 assume responsibility for the escort vehicle(s) and the actions of the driver(s)
 be in a position to control all escorted vehicles at all times
 ensure that in all circumstances the maximum length of the escort party does not exceed
50 m
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ensure that the escorted driver has a valid provincial driver’s licence
remain with the escorted vehicle and maintain a listening watch on 121.8 MHz while the
FSS is open and on 123.25 MHz when the FSS is closed.
5.7
APRON
Apron includes the main apron and the east apron, which is the apron area used by Invicta,
Eaglerock Aviation, Fox Aviation, Insight Instruments, etc. and a D/A AVOP is required for both
aprons.
5.8
HELICOPTER TRAFFIC
There are frequent helicopter departures and arrivals directly west and in front of the terminal
building. Be especially vigilant when driving in this area.
5.9
4-WAY FLASHERS
4-way flashers must be activated on vehicles in motion on the apron. De-activate the 4-way
flashers when the vehicle is parked.
5.10
OPERATIONS ON MANOEUVRING AREAS (Runways and Taxiways)
Only holders of D AVOP or vehicles escorted by the holder of a D AVOP may drive on a
manoeuvring area.
The rules for driving on manoeuvring areas are in addition to the rules for operating a vehicle on
an apron.
No vehicle or person may enter a manoeuvring area without the permission of the Flight Service
Station.
5.11
WORKING RADIO
All vehicles and equipment operating on a manoeuvring area shall have a functioning 2-way radio
capable of receiving and transmitting on aviation frequencies and be operated by a person with a
valid Restricted Radio Telephone Operators Certificate (Aeronautical) or be escorted by a vehicle
so equipped and manned.
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RADIOTELEPHONE PROCEDURES
6.1
FLIGHT SERVICE STATION OPEN
The Flight Service Station is open daily between the hours of 0715 and 2100. During those hours
all drivers shall contact St. Catharines Radio on 121.8 MHz to receive permission to proceed to a
specified location by a specified route before entering a manoeuvring area. While on the
manoeuvring area, the vehicle operator must continuously monitor 121.8 MHz.
Before transmitting, the vehicle operator shall listen to ensure that he/she will not interrupt
another transmission.
The vehicle operator shall acknowledge all instructions as understood or request that the
instructions be repeated if not understood.
When instructed to leave the runway, the vehicle operator shall acknowledge the instruction,
leave the runway immediately and report off the runway when beyond the taxi holding line.
In all cases, the vehicle operator shall report off the runway when beyond the taxi holding line.
Restrict transmissions to authorized messages. Transmit to St. Catharines Radio on121.8 MHz.
Standard phraseology has been developed in order to transmit instructions and messages in a
most efficient manner and without misunderstanding, using the fewest words. The following are
some examples of requests to drive on manoeuvring areas.
Example 1:
Vehicle Operator:
“St. Catharines Radio, Staff Five Four”
St. Catharines Radio:
“Staff Five Four, St. Catharines Radio”
Vehicle Operator:
“St. Catharines Radio, Staff Five Four, Main Apron, request permission to proceed to
Runway 11-29 via Taxiway Bravo across Runway 06-24.”
St. Catharines Radio:
“Staff Five Four proceed to Runway 11-29 via Taxiway Bravo across 06-24.”
Vehicle Operator:
“Staff Five Four to proceed to Runway 11-29 via Taxiway Bravo across 06-24 .”
If the request for permission to proceed is denied, response from St. Catharines Radio
will include the word “NEGATIVE’, for example:
St. Catharines Radio:
“Staff Five Four, NEGATIVE! Hold your position.”
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Pt 6 - 2
Vehicle Operator:
“Staff Five Four will hold position.”
Example 2:
Vehicle Operator:
“St. Catharines Radio, Staff Five Four”
St. Catharines Radio:
“Staff Five Four, St. Catharines Radio.”
Vehicle Operator:
“Staff Five-Four East Apron, request permission to proceed to T-Hangars via Main Apron,
Taxiway Alpha.”
St. Catharines Radio:
“Staff Five Four, proceed to T-Hangars via Main Apron, Taxiway Alpha.”
Vehicle Operator:
Staff Five Four.” proceeding to T-Hangars via Main Apron, Taxiway Alpha”
6.2
FLIGHT SERVICE STATION CLOSED
Between the hours of 2100 and 0715 the Flight Service Station is closed and vehicle operators
must be especially vigilant when operating airside during those hours Vehicle operators will not
have the assistance of the Flight Service Specialist.
During these hours, all vehicles required to operate on the manoeuvring area will monitor VHF
frequency 123.25 MHz and will transmit to “Traffic”. Remember that aircraft have the right-ofway. Wait for inbound aircraft to land before proceeding.
Example 1:
Vehicle Operator:
“St. Catharines Traffic, St. Catharines Traffic, this is Staff Five Four, main apron
proceeding to Runway 11-29 via Taxiway Bravo across Runway 06-24 via Taxiway Delta,
any conflicting traffic, report. This is Staff Five Four.”
Wait approximately 1 minute before proceeding using extreme caution. Continue to
monitor 123.25 MHz.
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
6.3
Pt 6 - 3
RADIO FAILURE
In the event of a radio failure when FSS is open, call the FSS on a cell phone at 905-688-4852.
If a cell phone is not available park the vehicle facing the tower and flash your headlights and wait
for an escort. If after 60 minutes an escort has not arrived, park the vehicle at the hold line on
runway 01. Walk to the ditch along the fence line and proceed along the ditch until you are south
of runway 06-24. Walk to the T-hangars and follow the road to the apron. Call FSS.
When the FSS is closed, park your vehicle at the hold line on runway 01. If you have a cell
phone, call airport maintenance to arrange for an escort to remove the vehicle. Remain with your
vehicle until airport maintenance arrives. If you don’t have a cell phone, walk to the ditch along
the fence line and proceed along the ditch until you are south of runway 06-24. Walk to the Thangars and follow the road to the apron. Then call airport maintenance at 905-684-8107 to
arrange for an escort to remove the vehicle.
Do not cross runway 06/24 under any circumstances.
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June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Pt 6 - 4
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Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
7.
Pt 7 - 1
SIGNS AND LIGHTS
7.1
SIGNS
Runway Location/Mandatory Hold Signs are used to identify the hold line and entrance to a
runway. These signs are red with white numbers. You may not proceed beyond a runway
location/mandatory hold sign without permission from Flight Service Station.
Location signs are black with yellow numbers.
Directional signs are black text on a yellow background. They indicate the direction to follow to
reach certain positions.
Location Sign indicating location on Taxiway Bravo co-located with
Runway Designator Sign indicating Runway 06-24
Direction sign indicating Taxiway Alpha to the left and
Taxiway Bravo to the right.
Direction Sign indication Taxiway Charlie to the right.
7.2
LIGHTING
White lights are used along the edge of runways. 06-24 is the only lighted runway at Niagara
District Airport. If at any time an operation is on the runway and the lights are flashing, the
operator must exit the runway immediately.
Blue lights are used along taxiways and the edge of aprons.
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Pt 7 - 2
Double Amber lights are used at the intersections of aprons and taxiways.
Double Blue lights are used at the intersection of two taxiways.
Double Amber lights indicate the intersection of an apron and a taxiway
Double Blue lights indicate the intersection of two taxiways
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
8.
Pt 8 - 1
MAP
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Pt 8 - 2
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Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Appendix A - 1
APPENDIX A – DEMERIT POINT SYSTEM
The Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit (AVOP) Program Demerit Point System has four stages
based on total points accumulated on the driver’s AVOP record.
Stage 1:
Point Accumulation
Stage 2:
6 points – 2 day AVOP suspension
Stage 3:
9 points – 5 day AVOP suspension
Stage 4:
10 points or more – up to 20 days suspension. In addition, the AVOP is
suspended pending an investigation that may result in subsequent charge(s) or
recommendation(s).
A.1
Minor Infractions
Minor Infractions – on record 12 months
Points
Failure to comply with NDAC Airport Traffic Directives
2
Failure to comply with vehicle safety equipment
2
Driving with an unsecured load
2
Driving behind aircraft with engines running
3
Driving 1 – 9 km above the speed limit
3
Failure to obey signs and barriers
3
Failure to obey a stop sign
3
Unsafe reversing of vehicle
3
Improper parking of vehicle/equipment
3
Improper passing
3
A.2
Major Infractions
Major Infractions – on record 24 months
Points
Interfering with an emergency in progress (i.e. fuel spill)
6
Failure to maintain proper escort
6
Unsafe operation of a vehicle
a
Driving 10 – 20 km. above the speed limit
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6
6
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Appendix A - 2
Failure to yield right-of-way to aircraft/marshalling crew
9
Failure to yield right-of-way to maintenance vehicles
9
Failure to comply with instructions of airport staff
9
Failure to yield right-of-way to responding emergency vehicles
9
Driving between aircraft and marshaller
9
Careless driving
b
9
a. Driving without due care and attention
b. Driving without due care, attention and regard for the safety of aircraft, passengers and others.
A.3
Gross Misconduct
Gross Misconduct – on record 36 months
Points
Driving over 20 km/hr above the speed limit
10
Smoking on airside
10
Driving with suspended provincial driver’s licence
10
Dangerous Driving
a
10
Driving under the influence of drugs
10
Driving on the Movement area without proper permit
10
a. Driving in a manner dangerous to others
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Appendix B - 1
APPENDIX B - DEFINITIONS
Aircraft:
Any machine capable of achieving lift as a reaction from the air it moves
through.
Airside:
That area of an airport intended to be used for activities related to aircraft
operations and to which public access is normally restricted
Apron:
That part of an aerodrome that excludes the manoeuvring area and is
intended to accommodate the loading and unloading of passengers and
the fuelling and parking of aircraft.
AVOP:
Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit is the authorization to operate a vehicle
on the airside of an airport.
The D/A AVOP Permit allows a driver to operate a self-propelled vehicle
on the aprons only. D/A AVOP permit holders are not allowed to enter
the manoeuvring areas.
D Permit:
The D AVOP Permit allows the operator to drive anywhere on the airport.
Permission must be received from the Flight Service Station prior to
entering the manoeuvring areas.
Incursion:
Unauthorized entry into, or movement within a manoeuvring area.
Intersection:
That point where a runway, taxiway or road meets or crosses another
runway, taxiway or road.
Manoeuvring Area: That part of an aerodrome intended to be used for takeoff,
landing and taxiing of aircraft. It includes runways and taxiways.
Movement Area: That part of an aerodrome to be used for the takeoff, landing and
taxiing of aircraft. The Movement area consists of the manoeuvring area
and the aprons.
Restricted Radiotelephone Operators Certificate: A document issued by Industry
Canada certifying that the holder may act as an operator of an
aeronautical-land radio station fitted with radiotelephone equipment only
transmitting on fixed frequencies and not open to the public.
Runway:
That portion of the manoeuvring devoted to the take-off and landing of
aircraft.
Taxiway:
That portion of the manoeuvring area devoted to the movement of
aircraft and equipment between a runway and an apron.
Vehicle:
An automobile, truck, bus, bicycle or any self-propelled device not
including aircraft.
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Niagara District Airport
Appendix B - 2
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June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
Appendix C - 1
APPENDIX C – SAMPLE QUESTIONS
C.1
Questions
D/A AVOP
1) Which of the following traffic has the right of way over all other traffic?
a. Emergency vehicles
b. Maintenance vehicles in the performance of their duties
c. Aircraft
d. The vehicle approaching from the right
2) The intersection of an apron and a taxiway is indicated by:
a. A black sign with yellow text
b. Blue lights
c. Double amber lights
d. Double blue lights
3) Smoking on the apron is:
a. Permitted in designated areas only
b. Permitted anywhere
c. Prohibited both inside and outside vehicles
d. Permitted if no aircraft are within 10 m of the smoker.
D AVOP
4) Permission to enter a manoeuvring area is required from:
a. The Airport Manager
b. The Flight Service Station
c. Is not required
d. The employer
5) Runway edge lights are what colour?
a. Red
b. White
c. Blue
d. Amber
6) Which of the following call-up to St. Catharines Radio is correct?
a. St. Catharines Radio, this is Truck Five Four, over
b. St. Catharines Radio, Staff Fifty-Four
c. St. Catharines Radio, Truck Fifty-Four
d. St. Catharines Radio, Staff Five Four
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012
Niagara District Airport
C.2
Appendix C - 2
Answers
Question/Answer
1.
c
2.
c
3.
c
4.
b
5.
b
6.
d
Airside Vehicle Operations Program and Procedures
June 27, 2012