The ICAO<\/strong> (International Civil Aviation Organisation) has agreed with Amendment 15 to Annex 14, Volume I<\/strong> a new system for assessing the load-bearing capacity of aerodrome surfaces: ACR-PCR<\/strong>short for Aircraft Classification Rating<\/em> and Pavement Classification Rating<\/em>. This new system replaces the previously used ACN-PCN system<\/strong> (Aircraft Classification Number - Pavement Classification Number), which has been in use worldwide for decades.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The decisive difference: While the old system made highly simplified assumptions about the load from aircraft, ACR-PCR allows for a More precise and individualised assessment<\/strong> the actual utilisation of runways, taxiways and aprons. The aim is to More efficient use of infrastructure<\/strong>, Reduced maintenance effort<\/strong> and thus ultimately also a Reduction of emissions<\/strong>for example through less frequent construction work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The core components of the method are<\/p>\n\n\n\n The system takes differentiated account of various factors such as Tyre pressure<\/strong>, Weight<\/strong>, Structure type of the covering<\/strong> and Operating category<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Important:<\/strong> One Mathematical conversion<\/strong> between the old ACN-PCN system and the new ACR-PCR is not possible<\/strong>. This means that operators and pilots must familiarise themselves with the new values and adapt their planning accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although ICAO has postponed the official validity of the new method to 28 November 2024<\/strong> the application in the EASA member states<\/strong>to which Austria also belongs, postponed to a later date<\/strong>. The aim is to Synchronised implementation<\/strong> throughout the EU.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The specific date for the introduction in Austria will be determined by the Austro Control<\/strong> will be announced separately. Until then, the existing system will remain valid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The first airfields in Austria that have already Publish PCR values according to the new method<\/strong>are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n The main runways 11\/29 and 16\/34 each have a PCR from 900 to 1100<\/strong> depending on the construction method and taxiway section. Zones with particularly high load-bearing capacity (e.g. concrete construction) achieve the maximum PCR category R\/B\/W\/T 1100<\/strong>which is sufficient even for the heaviest commercial aircraft.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Differentiated values were also recorded in Graz. The main runway 16C\/34C has a PCR of 470 F\/A\/W\/T<\/strong> while concreted apron areas (e.g. Apron SOUTH Concrete) with PCR 800 R\/A\/W\/T<\/strong> are classified. Taxiways and asphalted aprons are significantly lower, in some cases at PCR 75-165<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Explanation of the classifiers:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The new ACR-PCR method brings tangible benefits for all involved:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In addition, the new method promotes the Climate protection<\/strong>as unnecessary structural reinforcements, pavement replacements and temporary closures can be reduced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The introduction of the ACR-PCR method represents a important step towards modern, data-based infrastructure management<\/strong> in the aviation sector. Austria's airports are already well prepared. As soon as the go-ahead is given for the nationwide changeover, more airports will follow suit and publish their PCR values - a sign of innovation, safety and sustainability in aviation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Further information:<\/strong>New concepts and principles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Timetable for implementation in Austria<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
First published PCR values: Vienna and Graz make a start<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Vienna-Schwechat Airport (LOWW)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Graz-Thalerhof Airport (LOWG)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Advantages and significance for pilots and operators<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Outlook<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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The latest AIC communications on the ACR-PCR launch can be downloaded from the website of the Austro Control GmbH<\/strong> (www.austrocontrol.at<\/a>) can be called up.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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