Published date: 10 July 2025

Purpose

This AC describes an acceptable means of compliance with Civil Aviation Rule Part 139 relating to aerodrome design requirements.

Focus

This material is intended for:

  • applicants for the grant of and holders of an aerodrome operator certificate under the requirement of Civil Aviation Rule Part 139 Aerodromes—Certification, Operation and Use
  • aerodromes used by aeroplanes conducting air transport operations under Part 121.

It is also recommended for any other aerodromes used by aeroplanes conducting air transport operations under Parts 125 and 135.

Related rules

This AC relates to Part 139 - specifically rule 139.51 Aerodrome design requirements.

Change notice

Revision 8:

  • Adds new section 1.6, Airport Design and Master Plan
  • Updates section 2.5, Strength of Pavement, adding information about Pavement classification rating (PCR) at section 2.6, to provide operators with guidance to continue to use the existing PCN approach, while introducing the new approach, and
  • Adds new definitions: Aircraft classification rating (ACR), PCR and Significant obstacles.