What is IS-BAO?

Introduced in 2002 by the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) is a voluntary safety standard developed specifically for business aviation to help operators optimize their operations and establish a culture of safety for their entire organization. The code of best practices is based on standards and recommended practices established by the International Civil Aviation Organization’s (ICAO), the United Nations agency that regulates global aviation. IS-BAO is recognized (and encouraged) by both the FAA and CAA (Canada), as well as the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Participation indicates an operator’s dedication to operational excellence and safety, well beyond achieving simple Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) compliance.

Why was IS-BAO introduced?

Prior to IS-BAO, there was no framework to ensure that private jet operators were complying with the minimum FAA requirements. Additionally, the FAA does not mandate Part 135 operators (commercial air operations, including on-demand charter) to maintain safety management systems (SMS). The program modernized international operating rules for corporate aircraft, enhancing safety industry-wide. 

How is IS-BAO achieved?

To achieve IS-BAO certification, private jet charter operators are audited by an accredited third-party IS-BAO auditor. The rigorous process concentrates on SMS development, assessing any gaps in standards and procedures have been identified and mitigated. Only 1,000+ operators have achieved IS-BAO, out of more than 5,000 worldwide. Schubach Aviation is one of few companies to have advanced to Stage 3.

Operators can advance through three increasingly IS-BAO stages, representing increasing levels of SMS maturity:

• Stage 1 – confirms that the SMS infrastructure is established and that safety management activities are appropriately targeted  
• Stage 2 – ensures that safety risks are being effectively managed  
• Stage 3 – verifies that safety management activities are fully integrated into the operator’s business and that a positive safety culture is being sustained.

Once IS-BAO is achieved, audits are conducted every two to three years to renew registration or progress to an advanced stage.