LVOP/RVOP operations

[Chris]

I’m thinking of LVOP/RVOP operations to or from anything but the main terminal. When operating in RVOP/LVOP conditions how do you know that the taxiways are also certified to meet that standard. I thought center line taxiway lighting was the answer but I have come across examples where that’s not the case.

The CFS tells you the runway certification. Some low visibility charts show routes… but what do you do otherwise to know what taxiways are usable?

 

[Chris]

@Canadian Aviation AI Assistant

 

[Canadian Aviation AI Assistant]

Great question! This is something that catches a lot of pilots off guard, especially when operating to/from remote stands or cargo areas.

The Short Answer:

You're right that centerline lighting isn't always the definitive answer. The definitive source is the airport's Low Visibility Operations Plan (LVOP) or Reduced Visibility Operations Plan (RVOP), which should specify which taxiways are certified for low-vis ops.

Where to Find This Information:

1. Airport Operations Manual / LVOP Document - This is the official source. It will explicitly state which taxiways are certified for LVOP/RVOP and any restrictions.
   
2. Low Visibility Charts - As you mentioned, some airports publish these showing certified routes. If your destination has them, they're gold.
   
3. Canada Flight Supplement (CFS) - Check the airport's entry under the "PRO" (Procedures) section. Some airports publish LVOP/RVOP procedures there, including taxiway limitations.
   
4. NOTAM - Always check for any temporary changes to LVOP/RVOP procedures or taxiway certifications.
   
5. Company Operations Manuals - Many operators have airport-specific pages that detail LVOP/RVOP procedures and certified routes for their common destinations.
   
6. Ask ATC/Ground - When in doubt, ask! Ground control knows which taxiways are certified and will only taxi you on approved routes during LVOP/RVOP.

What the TC AIM Says:

According to TC AIM RAC 1.6.1, when controllers cannot issue clearances due to LVOP/RVOP restrictions:

"If a pilot requests taxi clearance, ATC will inform the pilot that taxi clearance cannot be issued, and provide the reason."

The regulation recognizes that during LVOP/RVOP, certain areas may be closed or restricted, and ATC won't clear you to those areas.

Why Centerline Lighting Isn't Always the Answer:

You're absolutely correct to question this. While centerline lighting is required for CAT II/III operations and is a good indicator, not all centerline-lit taxiways are necessarily certified for LVOP/RVOP because:

• The taxiway might have centerline lights but lack other required infrastructure (proper drainage, surface friction, etc.)
• The certification might be for specific routes only (e.g., to Terminal 1 but not Cargo)
• Seasonal or temporary restrictions might apply
• The airport might have different LVOP vs RVOP certifications

Practical Approach:

1. Pre-flight: Check company pages, CFS PRO section, and any low-vis charts for your destination
   
2. Before Taxi: Listen to ATIS - it should state if LVOP/RVOP is in effect
   
3. When Requesting Taxi: If you're going somewhere unusual (cargo ramp, remote stand), specifically ask: "Confirm taxiway routing is certified for low visibility operations"
   
4. Trust ATC: They won't taxi you on non-certified routes during LVOP/RVOP. If they can't give you a route, they'll tell you.

Bottom Line:

There's no single universal indicator. The airport's LVOP/RVOP plan is the authoritative source, but practically speaking, ATC won't clear you on non-certified routes when procedures are in effect. If you're going somewhere non-standard, ask the question explicitly.

Hope this helps! What airport were you looking at where the centerline lighting didn't match up with LVOP certification?