The IBAC International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling (IS-BAH) is now offering an option to self-declare conformity to its ground handling safety programme.

A ground handling service provider (GHSP) may now pursue conformance with the IS-BAH standard either through its recognised independent third-party audit and stage registration path, or through self-declaration. Self-declaration refers to a process where an organisation states its conformity with certain standards, in this case the IS-BAH, without the need for an external audit or certification. The intent is to support the industry in efforts to meet its obligations as ground handling regulation is rapidly evolving globally.

Terry Yeomans, director of the IS-BAH programme, comments: “We have introduced this self-declaration option to allow organisations to use the IS-BAH as a tool to help them meet their obligations to safe operations and imminent regulatory oversight of ground handling service providers. We believe most organisations will continue to seek independent confirmation that their internal processes meet the requirements of the IS-BAH. Third-party verification continues to provide the highest level of credibility. Organisations should approach self-declaration with care and realise that customers or regulators may question the accuracy of the organisation’s claims without a third-party review. There are many benefits that the IS-BAH registration process brings that each organisation must consider.”

Kurt Edwards, IBAC director general, adds: “This self-declaration option will make the IS-BAH standard more accessible for many independent ground handling service providers around the world. They will now have access to the international practices, guidelines and protocols of this ICAO-recognised standard to nurture their own safety culture.”

The self-declaration option allows organisations to use the IS-BAH programme as a guideline to meet new regulatory regimes. By reviewing manuals and procedures, examining records, interviewing personnel and observing operations, the GHSP can arrive at its own conclusion of the degree of conformity and the effectiveness of its management efforts and, where required, provide such information to regulatory authorities.