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In November 2024, the new Aircraft Classification Rating – Pavement Classification Rating (ACR-PCR) system, adopted by ICAO, comes into force. This system contributes to safe and efficient runway performance by offering a more accurate evaluation of the strength of airport pavements, providing a better understanding of pavement life, and facilitating pavement usage optimization.
Adopting the ACR-PCR system is a significant step forward for airport owners and operators. However, it does require a comprehensive understanding of the new system’s requirements.
The ACR-PCR system will replace the outdated ACN-PCN system, which is known to be inconsistent with modern airport pavement design methods. The ACR-PCR system provides a more accurate evaluation of the bearing strength of airport pavements.
This offers airport owners and operators improved predictability of pavement life and optimization of pavement usage; as well as the ability to better optimize and prioritize inspection and maintenance planning for their pavements.
Automatic conversion between ACN-PCN and ACR-PCR is not possible as there is no recognized correlation between the two systems. The ACR-PCR method requires an assessment of the following elements:
Adopting the ACR-PCR system typically entails a 3-stage approach in defining the PCR for the airport pavements.
The ACR-PCR system has been adopted by ICAO and will become applicable in November 2024. As of that moment, airports need to publish the Pavement Classification Ratings (PCR) for all airport pavements in the AIP.
Adopting the new ACR-PCR system offers plenty of opportunities for airport owners and operators to optimize the use, inspection and maintenance of their pavements. But converting to the new method requires a comprehensive understanding of the ACR-PCR requirements.
Working with experts who have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the process can help you ensure a successful and timely adoption. NACO has over 70 years of experience in airport pavement engineering and expertise in ACR-PCR projects and can help airports in the process.
Nicol Botha is an airport pavement specialist at NACO. He has extensive experience on numerous airport development and rehabilitation projects as well as operational studies for airports such as the new Western Sydney Airport (Sydney) and Luxembourg Airport (Luxembourg). His experience ranges from detailed design, management of design and planning assignments through construction supervision to technical support on projects.
