SKY MERIDIAN SERVICES

Aircraft-aerodrome compatibility studies

We evaluate aircraft compatibility with airfield infrastructure: geometry, clearances, load-bearing capacity, and operating conditions for airports in Romania, including Oradea and Bihor.

Technical Guide: Aircraft Compatibility — regulations, input data, and documentation.

Aircraft Compatibility: How to prepare an assessment for an airfield: a practical article for project preparation.

The aircraft and configuration analyzed

We evaluate the compatibility of aircraft with the airfield's infrastructure and operating conditions when their characteristics exceed design parameters or certified specifications. The analysis is customized for the specific aircraft type and variant, operating weights, estimated movement frequency, and the infrastructure configuration utilized. We correlate data from the manufacturer's documentation with measurements, plans, and airfield records, identifying the geometric, structural, and operational requirements that necessitate additional verification.

Kinematics, turns, and clearances

We perform analyses of taxiing routes and swept paths during turns, U-turns, pushback, and towing maneuvers. We correlate wingspan, fuselage length, wheelbase, distance between the outer edges of the main landing gear wheels, and steering system characteristics with the geometry of taxiways, fillets, and aprons. We verify wheel paths, clearances from pavement edges, and available distances from buildings, equipment, and neighboring aircraft. We identify restrictive points and execution conditions for maneuvers, including the need for widenings, repositioning, or alternative routes.

Load-bearing capacity of airport surfaces

We evaluate the stress on paved surfaces based on aircraft weight, landing gear configuration, load distribution on wheels, and tire pressure. We correlate these loads with the evaluated load-bearing capacity, composition and condition of the structure, subgrade soil characteristics, and cumulative traffic. We analyze each sector of the route, including turning and parking areas, where load conditions may differ. For overload situations, we substantiate the need for detailed structural assessments, weight or frequency limitations, and degradation monitoring measures.

Clearances and operational interfaces

We analyze the influence of aircraft dimensions on holding positions, the Obstacle Free Zone (OFZ), and the protection of radionavigation equipment. We examine the effects of engine exhaust, suction zones, and the risk of foreign object damage (FOD) in relation to shoulders, equipment, and adjacent activities. We correlate the configuration of parking stands with access for handling equipment, refueling, boarding, de-icing, and vehicle circulation. We verify the implications for the level of protection for rescue and firefighting and for the possibilities of removing a disabled aircraft.

Risks and proposed conditions

We substantiate the proposed conditions by identifying hazards, analyzing incident scenarios, and evaluating initial and residual risks. We establish measures adapted to restrictive points: dedicated routes, limitation of simultaneous maneuvers, protection of neighboring positions, weight or speed restrictions, and additional ground assistance. We define responsibilities, conditions of application, communication between involved structures, and criteria for aborting operations. We evaluate the effectiveness of the measures and the necessity of infrastructure interventions for repeated use of the airfield by the analyzed aircraft.

Aircraft-to-airfield compatibility report

We present the results through compatibility drawings, maneuver simulations, clearance tables, load-bearing analyses, and risk assessments, accompanied by proposed procedures. We support coordination between the airport operator, aircraft operator, air traffic services, and handling providers, as well as the preparation of documentation for applicable approvals. We document the limitations of the assessment and conditions that require re-analysis, and support the integration of approved measures into the airfield manual, operational procedures, and relevant aeronautical information.

Data required for a quote

  • Aircraft type and variant, weights, and operating frequency.
  • Intended routes and parking stands.
  • Infrastructure geometry, load-bearing capacity, and conditions.
  • Existing restrictions and procedures.

Frequently asked question

Is checking the aircraft wingspan sufficient?

The analysis also addresses landing gear, maneuvers, load-bearing capacity, engine exhaust, obstacles, and service requirements, depending on the evaluated configuration.

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