Given that many operators might be engaged in international flight planning and trip preparation for the Paris summer games, AviationManuals VP, strategic partnerships Clément Meersseman feels it helpful, and prudent, to offer a few key reminders to support safe and compliant international operations. Given the current geopolitical landscape, a properly evaluated risk assessment should be a high priority, particularly for such a high-profile global event. Red flags can range from potentially harmless disruptions such as climate activism, to potential acts of terrorism, which lead to increased risks to passengers, crews and equipment. That is why the team has been contemplating mechanisms to help proactively pre-empt such potential risks.

He offers what he calls AviationManuals’ lucky seven, a list of recommendations to incorporate into international flight planning and preparation:

1 - Take into account heightened risks when utilising the Flight Risk Assessment Tool (FRAT).

2 - Make sure that you are familiar with alternate airports in case you have to reposition or make an unplanned arrival. Note that some airports may not have the level of security needed.

3 - As basic as it may sound, know your airspace for the entire route and be prepared for unexpected deviations.

4 - Make sure that you have an up-to-date Emergency Response Plan (ERP). Include response procedures pertaining to public disturbance factors like mass shootings or acts of war, and be aware that incident and accident reporting procedures in France may differ from the NTSB.

5 - Have your Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) manual on board - the chance of ramp check is highly probable.

6 - Ensure that you have the proper Letters of Authorisation (LoA’s) specific to Europe.

7 - Confirm your MEL is updated (specific to your aircraft) to the latest MMEL version and accessible. This includes making sure maintenance and operations procedures are current to the manufacturer’s latest M&O procedures document.

Ultimately, you’ll want to make sure that you are truly utilising your Safety Management System reporting tools to address any hazards or deviations you encounter, and be extra vigilant regarding bulletins, NOTAMs and special news reports that might impact your flight. Keep in mind that in our current unpredictable airspace you absolutely cannot be too prepared.