The International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations (IS-BAO) program, a set of best practice standards for business aircraft operators developed in 2002, has surpassed 700 registered operators, International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) director general Kurt Edwards announced yesterday. This group of operators includes both noncommercial operators of business aircraft and air charter companies.

“We are pleased that more than 700 operators worldwide have voluntarily demonstrated compliance with this global industry code of best practices,” Edwards said. “IS-BAO has been in existence for more than eleven years. Operators of large and turbine-powered aircraft from more than 35 countries have adopted the program to improve their operations through an active safety management system, recognized standards and industry best practices. They are contributing to the excellent safety record of business aviation.”

IS-BAO consists of standards and recommended practices that serve as guides to “reaching safety and effectiveness goals.” According to IBAC, a safety management system developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization “forms the core of the scalable program and integrates all activities of a flight department so they are operated in the most risk-averse manner possible.” Several countries, including Bermuda, recognize IS-BAO as a means to comply with their SMS requirements.