EASA SIB 2021-11: Content of Aeronautical Information Publication — Assessment and Reporting of Runway Surface Conditions (GRF)

What to do

National competent authorities should update AIP part AD 1.2 to include runway surface condition assessment and reporting alongside rescue and firefighting services and snow plans. Aerodrome operators must provide detailed information under part AD 2.7 regarding seasonal availability and clearing methods. These updates should be completed in a timely manner to allow Aeronautical Information Service Providers to distribute the information before the GRF implementation date of 12 August 2021, with regulatory provisions applying from 27 January 2022.

Summary

EASA Safety Information Bulletin 2021-11 provides guidance on the content of the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) related to the assessment and reporting of runway surface conditions using the Global Reporting Format (GRF). It addresses the implementation of GRF provisions in the EU regulatory framework and ICAO standards to improve runway surface condition reporting and mitigate runway excursion risks. The bulletin is relevant to national competent authorities, air navigation service providers, and aerodrome operators.

What changed

This bulletin highlights the need to update AIP content, specifically parts AD 1.2.2 and AD 2.7, to accurately reflect the GRF concept and additional EU provisions for winter runway operations. It proposes adjustments to headings and content to better accommodate operational information on runway surface condition assessment and reporting. EASA plans to submit proposals to ICAO to amend relevant provisions for a more holistic implementation of GRF.

Why it matters

Accurate and consistent reporting of runway surface conditions is critical for safe aircraft performance calculations during landing and take-off, especially on wet or contaminated runways. Aviation professionals must ensure that AIP information supports operational decision-making and compliance with updated EU and ICAO requirements. This improves safety by reducing the risk of runway excursions and enhances the effectiveness of winter operations management.