Introduction
The Private Airstrip Access Program (PAAP) was launched in 2018. This forward thinking and progressive BCGA program was spearheaded by Ken Wardstrom and sponsored by Michael Knight of Knight LLP.
What is the Private Airstrip Access Program?
The PAAP was developed as a way to alleviate airstrip and land owners of liability resulting from pilots using their private Airstrip. Thus making it easier for them to grant permission to private and PPR airstrips.
What does the Private Airstrip Access Program provide me?
PAAP provides unprecedented access to private airstrips through British Columbia. What this means is that you will be granted the privilege to use certain signatory private airstrips in compliance specified terms and with the landowners’/ occupiers’ consent. Importantly, permission must be granted by the private airstrip landowner/occupier prior to each use of the airstrip. Airstrip landowners’/occupiers’ have the right at any time to deny you access to their airstrip, for any reason. This includes withdrawing prior permission.
Who does the Private Airstrip Access Program protect?
Landowner, Landowner, Landowner!
ALL pilots and passengers must sign a full waiver of liability, voluntary assumption of risk and indemnity agreement (the “Waiver”) to be granted access to the private airstrips. This means that you will be legally responsible for any, and all damage that occurs to: yourself, your plane, your passengers, the property belonging to the private airstrip owners and any other damage that occurs on or around the private airstrip from my usage of the airstrip.
The landowner/occupier of the private airstrip or aerodrome and BCGA shall be released from any, and all, legal liability relating to PAAP and your use of the airstrip. It is crucial that you understand exactly what this entails. By signing the Waiver, you expressly acknowledge the inherent risks associated with PAAP. With your signature and initials on the Waiver, you are hereby waiving any, and all, legal recourses you may have available to you.
How Do I Sign the Waiver and Sign Up for PAAP?
- Become a BCGA Member
- You will read and complete the online Waiver form.
- You will receive your copy electronically to keep in your aircraft.
- Signed waivers are valid for the calendar year in which they were signed.
- Upon permission from the private airstrip landowner, you will now be able to access their airstrip.
To sign up any passengers, a separate waiver form must will filed out and sign. It is your responsibility to ensure passengers have signed the waiver form. If you do not do so, you will be personally and legally responsible for any, and all, damages that may occur to your passengers while participating in PAAP.
It is a further requirement that you have insurance for PAAP and the usage of the private airstrips. In the event you do not have insurance for your usage of the private airstrips, you will be personally liable for any, and all, damages that may arise on or near the airstrip.
We also ask that you please be respectful and courteous in your usage of the private airstrips. The aviation is a small community, having respect for the private airstrips
being used is crucial. Be cognizant that you are on private property and it is a privilege to be able use the private airstrips.
Private Airstrip Code of Conduct
- Review the “Participating Airstrip’s Info Page” before every flight to a PAAP airstrip. Owners will update this information as req’d.
- Only arrive at a private airstrip after receiving permission from the airstrip owner/operator. (Even if a PAAP member)
- Leave the airstrip or property in the condition that you found it or better.
- Be mindful of noise and neighbours.
- No Touch & Go’s
- Do not fly to a private airstrip just to land and depart to say you’ve been there. Stay a while and visit local businesses or take advantage of what
the local area has to offer. (Landing at a private airstrip is a privilege, not a right) - If the airstrip is remote, offer to bring supplies or perishables for the owner operator. (ie. Milk, Bread, Eggs, Fruit, Veggies, Tims)
- Offer to make a contribution towards maintaining the airstrip, either monetary or in time.
- Park so that other aircraft can land and depart.
- If there are bathroom facilities use them instead of the bushes.
- Submit a PIREP on the BCGA Airstrip Map
