CAP 790 Draft Released by CAA
CAP 790? What is all the fuss about? Well, The CAA publishes guidance on Airside Vehicle Operation and Driving in CAP 642 Chapter 4. The guidance is comprehensive, however, it lacks clarity on the rules governing the training, issuing of driving permits and medical standards required to obtain an Airside Driving Permit. The Airport Operators Association (AOA) UK Driver Permit Scheme is the current process by which the UK endeavours to meet the standardisation of Airside Driver training and requirements.
The AOA indicated in 2009 that their scheme needed reviewing and updating. The CAA, through the CAP 642 Working Group, was invited to participate in the review. The review group investigated whether a new scheme, with CAA backing, would receive wider support. The feedback the CAP 642 Working Group received fully supported the Group’s involvement in developing a new scheme and as a result of work we have done, we are now able to present CAP 790 for consultation.
Purpose
The objective of CAP 790 is to minimise the risk of accidents and injury to persons, damage to aircraft and property, and operational disruption, arising from the use of vehicles in airside areas. It is intended to assist aerodrome authorities in establishing a regime whereby staff who are required to operate vehicles and equipment on the airside are properly trained to do so in a safe manner with the full knowledge of the relevant rules, procedures and instructions and an awareness of the consequences of contravening them. Guidance is also provided for employers regarding the provision and safe use of vehicles and equipment.
Discussion
The new scheme is designed to reverse the growing trend in vehicle-related runway incursions by restricting the access to the runway to only those essential drivers needing access during operational hours and reduce the amount of vehicle-related accidents on the apron by increasing the competency requirements. The incentive in developing the new scheme was to emphasise the point that anyone holding the new Airside Driving Permit will be regarded as a professional driver with the competencies and attitude the status endorses.
Proposal
The CAA would now like to invite all stakeholders to review and comment upon CAP 790 Airside Driving and Vehicle Operation. The draft document can be viewed on the Consultations area of the CAA website via www.caa.co.uk/consultations, or you can find a copy at the bottom of this page.
A comments form is appended to the consultation web page for completion and submission to Aerodrome Standards Department via consultation.asd@caa.co.uk or you can find a copy at the bottom of this page and download for submission.
Comments must be received by 16 November 2010.