In a major step forward for the implementation of ICAO's safety, security and sustainability standards, IATA has acceded to Corporate Partnership in the TRAINAIR PLUS Programme in order to cooperate with ICAO on the creation and offering of training courses in a variety of fields.

TRAINAIR PLUS is a cooperative network of training organizations and industry partners working together to develop and deliver ICAO-harmonized training packages.

Created by the 1944 Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention), ICAO serves as the forum for cooperation in all fields of civil aviation among its 193 Member States, including the establishment of the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) necessary for the safety, security, efficiency and regularity of international civil aviation. IATA is a trade association for the world's airlines, representing some 290 airlines or 82% of total air traffic.

According to the Memorandum of Cooperation, IATA and ICAO will jointly create and deliver courseware consistent with the provisions of the Chicago Convention, the SARPs in its Annexes, and relevant ICAO guidance material and programmes.

The significance of this new collaboration is already reflected in the development of the first training course it has enabled. Entitled "Introduction to The Global Reporting Format (GRF) for Runway Surface Conditions for Aircraft Operators and Flight Crew," the course will be of crucial importance, because this new ICAO methodology will enable the harmonized assessment and reporting of runway surface conditions, with corresponding improvements to flight crew assessment of take-off and landing performance.

"In November 2020, the GRF methodology will become applicable worldwide", highlighted Secretary General Dr. Fang Liu. "This online training will support ICAO in enhancing international awareness and providing targeted guidance in advance of the November 2020 applicability date."

"The Global Reporting Format for Runway Surface Conditions is an essential tool for safe operations on a daily basis," indicated Mr. Michael Comber, IATA's Director for ICAO Relations. "IATA is very pleased, through our collaboration with ICAO, to be contributing to support its implementation."

This new online course remains a key activity to raise awareness and support deployment of the GRF. Other outreach actions, such as symposia, regional seminars and local workshops will be held throughout the remainder of 2019 and in 2020, prior to the applicability date.

Contributed by ICAO