- Introduction to the development of the IS-BAO Rating
- IS-BAOs two new progressive program developments
The International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) was established by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) and its member associations, as a recommended code of best practices designed to help flight departments worldwide achieve high levels of safety and professionalism for private air charters. Both the FAA and CAA in Canada recognize IS-BAO as meeting the ICAO standard and encourage participation. The European Committee for Standardization (CEN) also recognizes IS-BAO as an industry standard for business aircraft operations. IS-BAO was amended in 2012 to facilitate implementation by helicopter operators. This was a joint effort between IBAC, the helicopter associations HAI, BHA and EHA.
The IS-BAO continues to evolve and respond to the industry needs by developing two new progressive programs. FlightPlan Stage 1 offers the busy small operator a simple and speedy pathway to Stage 1 registration. This all-inclusive option for new entrants comprises professional implementation assistance, one-day audit (excluding aircraft inspection), and “on-course” 6-month proficiency validations, all included for one fee. The Progressive Stage 3 program was developed for veteran operators to leverage their advanced safety systems. As an option to the legacy Stage 3, this innovative program includes a one-day progressive audit that is customized to the operation and provides exclusive access to a new business aviation safety database.
