Parked Aircraft Prompt FAA Caution on Airport Ops

The FAA is advising operators to remain vigilant about checking Notams and understanding the airport environment as the Covid-19 crisis is spurring carriers to park up to half of their fleets and airport operators search for space to accommodate this overflow. “Extensive overflow parking presents an extraordinarily unusual operational environment,” the agency said in a Safety Alert to Operators (SAFO 20005).

Air carriers and all pilots should thoroughly review Notams for each flight to assess the specific circumstances at an airport, the SAFO advises. “Airport conditions will differ and each should be known and fully understood prior to departure,” it states. Further, pilots should be proactive during operations, remaining aware of potential unexpected circumstances from non-standard operations and being alert to instrument landing systems (ILS) presentations, fluctuations or inaccuracy due to disturbances in ILS beams, the SAFO adds.

The SAFO additionally advises pilots to report unusual circumstances that vary from published reports and maintain clear communications with air traffic control. “If uncertainty exists then a go-around if airborne or stopping the aircraft on the ground should be considered,” it said, and stresses, particular care should be exercised at night or in reduced visibility.  If normal operational flow is disrupted, “flightcrew should consider the entire airport to be a ‘hot spot.’”