The Air Charter Safety Foundation (ACSF) has launched IAS Lite, a streamlined audit programme designed specifically for independent charter and non-commercial operators. The programme enables operators to become ACSF audit registered and achieve FAA Part 5 compliance, aligned with ICAO Annex 19 ICAO Doc 9859 and AC 120-92D. The IAS Lite integrates world-class safety tools, consultants and resources to offer a comprehensive, unified aviation safety and compliance solution.

IAS Lite is meticulously crafted for independent charter and non-commercial operators, ensuring they can achieve a higher level of safety management without the complexity and cost associated with larger audits. This programme ensures operators meet essential safety management requirements, align with international safety expectations and build a strong safety culture.

Operators can start the audit registration process by reviewing and submitting the operator pre-audit checklist, which assists in audit preparation and provides the audit team with a preliminary overview. Once received, an audit team professional will help guide the operator through the programme. Audit results are valid for 24 months, with operators able to request earlier audits to reaffirm their SMS progress. Fleet size is determined by the number of aircraft listed on the FAA OpsSpec D085 or equivalent authorisations.

The benefits of ACSF IAS for FAA Part 5 compliance are extensive. ACSF provides a detailed compliance roadmap to FAA Part 5 requirements, ensuring alignment with ICAO Annex 19. The programme supports the development of a just culture, promotes a safe reporting environment and offers tailored SMS support for effective safety management system implementation. Operators benefit from expert guidance, consortium options for cost-sharing, educational webinars, assistance with essential safety documents and continuous support for ongoing compliance and improvement.

“IAS Lite represents a significant advancement for independent charter and non-commercial operators, providing them with a customised, affordable, scalable approach to safety management. This programme ensures that even the smallest operators can meet and exceed the highest safety standards, ultimately enhancing their operational safety culture,” says president and CEO Bryan Burns. “We believe the ACSF IAS Lite will help small and medium-sized operators who don't necessarily have the resources to complete the full IAS registration, comply with the FAA's SMS Part 5 requirements.