Proposed amendments to Part 139 MOS – new system to reassess aerodrome pavement strength and update AIP ERSA - (CD 2502AS)

Overview

We would like your feedback on a proposal to amend the Part 139 Manual of Standards (MOS), to enable the implementation of a new Pavement Classification Rating (PCR) system. This would replace the existing Pavement Classification Number (PCN) system.

When introduced, the new PCR would require aerodrome operators to reassess pavement strength and report this information in the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) En-route Supplement Australia (ERSA).

This change is part of a global program for reporting pavement strength, with standards specified in Annex 14 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation (the Chicago convention) - Aerodromes, Volume 1. The new pavement strength rating system offers a more accurate evaluation of the strength of airport pavements and provides a better understanding of pavement life.

Principal changes that would occur

Under the proposed changes to the Part 139 MOS, the following will be required:

• For aerodromes with pavements intended for aircraft with a maximum certificated take-off weight (MTOW) greater than 5,700 kg, aerodrome operators would be obliged to determine and report a PCR value in AIP ERSA.
• For aerodromes with pavements intended for aircraft with an MTOW equal to or less than 5,700 kg, determining and reporting a PCR value would be optional. The aerodrome operator may also elect to publish a weight or tyre pressure value for the pavement.
• If an aerodrome operator is either obliged by the proposed standards to determine and report PCR values and does not provide the required information for the November 2025 AIRAC cycle, or, not obliged by the proposed standards to determine and report PCR values and chooses not to voluntarily do so, the pavement strengths for the aerodrome would be published as ‘unrated’.

Background and engagement

In mid-2024, we initiated a PCR Transition Working Group via the National Runway Safety Group, to assist with the transition from the current Aircraft Classification Number/Pavement Classification Number (ACN/PCN) system to the proposed new regulations for Aircraft Classification Rating (ACR/PCR).

The working group has helped to inform a transition pathway. This pathway includes the lodging of a 12-month ‘notification of difference’ with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to allow for a transition period.

The working group also assisted CASA to draft an Aeronautical Information Circular (AIC) (H38/24) that clearly identifies the procedure for assessing and publishing the PCR arrangements.

Why your views matter

Your feedback will help us make sure the proposed requirements are suitable, the final legislation is clear and it will work as intended.

Please submit your comments using the survey link on this page.

If you are unable to provide feedback via the survey link, please email regulatoryconsultation@casa.gov.au for advice.

Documents for review

All documents related to this consultation are attached in the ‘Related’ section at the bottom of the overview page. They are:

• Summary of proposed change on CD 2052AS, which provides background on the proposed standards
• Consultation Draft - Part 139 Manual of Standards Amendment Regulations No.1/2025
• MS Word copy of online consultation for ease of distribution and feedback within your organisation.

What happens next

At the end of the response period, we will:

• review all comments received
• make responses publicly available on the consultation hub (unless you request your submission remain confidential)
• publish a Summary of Consultation which summarises the feedback received and outlines any intended changes and next steps.

All comments received on the proposed legislation will be considered. Relevant feedback that improves upon the proposed instrument will be incorporated into the final instrument.

Post-implementation review

CASA will monitor and review the new rules during the transition phase and on an ongoing basis.