Embracing the power of science
Thumbs up for braking reports
Transport Canada is Canada’s equivalent to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It is responsible for the safety and efficiency of Canadian transportation systems, including Canada’s road, rail, marine, and air transportation.
Transport Canada released its Advisory Circular (AC) No. 700-060. Braking Action Report in February 2022. The AC is meant as a guide regarding the use of braking action reports by pilots, airlines, and airports.
Reports in any format
Aviation Safety Technologies can distribute ABAR reports to any stakeholders, anywhere, in any number of formats to match your operating procedures. FICONs, RCAMs, NOTAMs – there’s flexibility to blend with virtually any existing reporting mechanism.
Transport Canada's preference for ABARs
Precision and accuracy of ABARs
In its 2022 AC, Transport Canada compares objective Aircraft Braking Action Reports (ABARs) based on aircraft data to subjective pilot braking action reports (PBARs) based on pilot observations. The agency states:
"Pilot braking action reports based solely on pilot observations – without guidance and training – can be subject to large variations in accuracy and precision.
ABAR systems provide the highest level of accuracy and precision. ABAR systems most effectively serve as the basis for continuous improvement in the safety assurance process."
The agency concludes in its AC No. 700-060:
"Pilots need to understand how to provide accurate and consistent braking action reports.
Operators should review the information in this AC, and consider its inclusion (as appropriate) in their:
(a) Company Operations Manual.
(b) Standard Operating Procedures.
(c) Training programs for pilots and flight dispatchers.
(d) Any other established means of conveying safety and operational information within their organization (bulletins, notices, etc.).
This AC provides information and guidance on methods for improving the accuracy and precision of braking action reports. These methods are intended to further mitigate the risks associated with operations on wet and contaminated runways.
The original authors of TALPA intended for the RCAM to be improved upon as data and analysis methods improved. The methods described in this AC serve to accomplish that vital safety assurance function."
