The International Civil Aviation Organization has recognized the International Business Aviation Council’s IS-BAH program in the Global Aviation Safety Plan for 2026-2028. The ICAO Council approved the plan last month, marking the first time the International Standard for Business Aircraft Handling has been included as an ICAO-recognized industry evaluation program.
The IS-BAH program represents the only ground-handling standard listed for business aviation in the Global Aviation Safety Plan. The recognition places IS-BAH alongside IS-BAO, which previously achieved ICAO recognition, giving IBAC two safety standards with global distinction.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the ICAO Council in the new GASP,” said Terry Yeomans, IS-BAH program director. “This recognition embodies the mission we set out with when we launched IS-BAH in 2014.”
According to IBAC, the standard advocates for continuous improvement within ground-handling safety regardless of organization size or scope globally. The Montreal, Canada-based organization launched the IS-BAH program in 2014 to establish safety standards for business aircraft ground handling operations.
“We are proud to announce that both IS-BAO and now IS-BAH safety standards have gained distinct recognition from the ICAO Council in the new GASP,” said Kurt Edwards, director general at IBAC. According to IBAC, the achievement results from work by staff, IS-BAH auditors and support affiliates.
The recognition acknowledges the growing community of IS-BAH registered ground handlers who have demonstrated commitment to safety excellence in business aviation operations. The standard covers ground handling safety for business aviation both on the ground and during aircraft operations.
The Global Aviation Safety Plan provides the framework for coordinated global aviation safety improvement efforts and recognizes industry programs that contribute to safety enhancement. ICAO uses the plan to identify safety priorities and coordinate international aviation safety initiatives.
