ABS Jets Prague in the Czech Republic has become the first European FBO to receive IS-BAH Stage III certification. Since launching as a full FBO service provider in Slovakia last year, the company has also been awarded IS-BAH Stage I certification for its Bratislava airport base.

The three day-long audit was conducted remotely because of the ongoing pandemic. It proved an effective method of auditing while stringent restrictions remain in place. Extra thorough preparations were essential to ensure smooth communication flow. Various communication channels were used to walk the auditors through the facility to observe real-time operations and implemented safety standards. The IS-BAH accreditation process involves an audit of compliance with emergency procedures, training protocols, safety and security regulations, operational procedures and FBO safety management systems.

Director of ground operations Michal Pazourek comments: “I am pleased with the results of the audit, which showed zero findings. The ABS Jets team is rigorously continuing to build on the safety culture already in place. Indeed, we will keep investing in safety and risk management to prove our commitment to clients, employees, partners and shareholders.”

The IS-BAH (International Standard for Business Aircraft Handlers) is based on the long-established format and structure of the IS-BAO (International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations) programme. The IS-BAH programme, developed by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) in collaboration with the National Air Transportation Association (NATA), features a safety management system at its core, helps promote progressive SMS and sets the threshold for best practices in business aviation ground handling. ISBAH Stage III certification confirms that safety management activities are fully integrated into the operator's business and that a positive safety culture is being sustained.