CAAM issues Safety Information 03/2026 on runway incursion prevention
The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has issued Safety Information 03/2026 titled “Runway Incursion Prevention and Aerodrome Ground Movement Safety”.
The document is dated 26 March 2026 and is addressed to aerodrome operators and Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs).
According to the document, the Safety Information is intended to raise awareness on the risks associated with runway incursions and the importance of effective procedural controls, coordination and situational awareness for vehicle operations within aerodrome movement areas.
Safety Information refers to a recent runway incursion occurrence
Under the background section, CAAM refers to an occurrence on the night of 22 March 2026 involving Air Canada Express Flight 8646, a Bombardier CRJ900 regional jet operated by Jazz Aviation.
The document states that the aircraft was conducting a scheduled passenger flight from Montreal-Trudeau International Airport in Canada to LaGuardia Airport in New York, United States of America.
According to the preliminary information cited in the document, the aircraft collided with a Port Authority Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle during the landing roll on Runway 4 at approximately 2338 local time.
CAAM notes possible operational factors under preliminary information
The document states that the investigation is being conducted by the United States National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and that the contributing factors have not yet been formally established.
CAAM notes that preliminary information indicates several operational factors may have played a role, including possible simultaneous runway occupancy clearances issued to both the landing aircraft and the ARFF vehicle.
The document also refers to high controller workload, limited visibility of the ARFF vehicle to surface surveillance systems, and night-time operating conditions as factors identified under the preliminary information.
Runway incursions remain a high-risk aviation safety occurrence
CAAM states that the occurrence is the most recent in a series of high-profile runway incursion events globally.
The document notes that runway incursions remain among the highest-risk categories of aviation safety occurrences, with the potential for catastrophic or fatal consequences.
It further states that the occurrence reinforces the need for all stakeholders involved in aerodrome ground operations to maintain strong procedural discipline, coordination and situational awareness at all times.
Aerodrome operators and ANSPs advised to review movement-area procedures
Under the recommendations section, CAAM advises aerodrome operators and ANSPs to review existing procedures governing vehicle operations within aerodrome movement areas.
The document states that relevant parties should implement all necessary operational controls without delay.
In particular, CAAM advises a review of ATC procedures and standing instructions governing runway occupancy, to ensure that simultaneous clearances are not issued to aircraft and vehicles for the same runway, including during emergency response activations.
CAAM highlights coordination, vehicle equipage and surveillance systems
The document advises a review of coordination and communication protocols between aerodrome operators and Air Traffic Control, including procedures for entry into the manoeuvring area during non-routine or emergency operations and Low Visibility Operations.
CAAM also advises an audit of transponder and ADS-B equipage across airside vehicle fleets, including ARFF vehicles, follow-me cars, baggage tractors and other ground support equipment authorised to operate within the manoeuvring area.
The document states that such vehicles should be equipped with technology compatible with the aerodrome surface movement surveillance and conflict detection systems.
Recommendations include SMGCS checks, staffing review and joint exercises
CAAM advises aerodromes to review and test the functionality, alert thresholds and operational effectiveness of Surface Movement Guidance and Control Systems (SMGCS) or Advanced-SMGCS installed at the aerodrome.
The document also advises a review of ATC staffing levels and shift rostering arrangements, particularly during night and low-traffic shift periods, to ensure that certified controllers can manage concurrent operational events without unacceptable workload levels.
CAAM further advises that personnel authorised to operate vehicles within aerodrome operational areas remain trained, assessed as competent and familiar with aerodrome driving procedures, runway crossing protocols and emergency response coordination requirements.
Where practicable, the document recommends a joint tabletop exercise or simulation involving ATC, aerodrome operations and ARFF units to evaluate protocols for concurrent emergencies and vehicle movements within the manoeuvring area.
Recommendations are linked to CAAM civil aviation directives
The conclusion section states that the recommendations are consistent with provisions in Civil Aviation Directive (CAD) 14 Vol. I – Aerodrome Design and Operations, CAD 11 – Air Traffic Services, and CAD 1101 – Air Traffic Management.
CAAM urges all aerodrome operators and ANSPs to review the recommendations and take appropriate measures, where necessary, to ensure that the highest standards of operational safety continue to be maintained at all aerodromes in Malaysia.
