afi21-101_amcsup_1_Attachement_13_26_Jul_10.pdf

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Attachment 13 (Added-AMC)

AMC RAMP INSPECTION PROGRAM

A13.1. Public Law (PL) 99-661, Section 1204 (codified at Title 10 United States Code [U.S.C.] Section 2640), 1987 Defense Authorization Act, requires:

A13.1.1. Preflight Safety Inspection. A preflight safety inspection of each aircraft, conducted at any time during the operation of, but not more than 72 hours before, each internationally scheduled charter mission (for the air transportation of members of the Armed Forces) departing the United States.

A13.1.2. A preflight safety inspection of each aircraft used for domestic charter missions conducted to the greatest extent practical.

A13.2. Program Objective. As primary inspecting agent for the DOD, AMC will ensure PL 99- 661 is carried out to the fullest. To accomplish requirements specified in the law, AMC has further defined the policy as follows:

A13.2.1. Internationally Scheduled Charters. Apply to routine international channel passenger missions from established gateways that appear in a published schedule available to the general DOD user for booking and planning purposes. Unit ramp inspection program managers will extract this information from GDSS. This excludes special assignment airlift missions (SAAM) and exercise missions. HQ AMC/A4M, with concurrence from HQ AMC/JAC, has determined it prudent to inspect international SAAM and exercise mission aircraft when possible.

A13.2.2. Domestic Charter Passenger Missions. Unit ramp inspection program managers will schedule ramp inspections of domestic commercial air movement (CAM) missions to the greatest extent practical with a goal of 25 percent per month.

A13.2.3. Ramp Inspections. Ramp inspections are conducted primarily for missions carrying passengers or passengers and cargo. HQ AMC/A4MMP will direct exceptions to this policy if requested by the unit Ramp Inspection Program Manager.

A13.2.4. Funding. Ramp inspections are unit funded. Ensure unit Ramp Inspection Program Manager forecasts adequate funds (travel, per diem, airline tickets, rental car etc.)

A13.2.5. Program Responsibilities:

A13.2.5.1. HQ AMC/A4MMP will:

A13.2.5.1.1. Establish policy and provide guidance for administering the Ramp Inspection Program to ensure compliance with PL 99-661.

A13.2.5.1.2. Coordinate with QA program manager to resolve problems in meeting program objectives.

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A13.2.5.1.3. HQ AMC/A4MMP determines locations required to have a ramp inspection program. HQ AMC will provide sufficient time to allow for personnel to be trained in the event the program is required. If applicable, the MXG/CC or equivalent will establish a Ramp Inspection program in QA and designate a Ramp Inspection Program Manager, as an additional duty.

A13.2.5.1.3.1. A list of units required to have a ramp inspection program and assigned ICAO locations will be posted on the AMC Maintenance Policy Community of Practice.

https://wwwd.my.af.mil/afknprod/ASPs/docman/DOCMain.asp?Tab=0&FolderI D=AM-LG-00-01-2&Filter=AM-LG-00-01

A13.2.5.2. The Ramp Inspection Program Manager will:

A13.2.5.2.1. Identify international SAAM, exercise, and domestic missions to be inspected.

A13.2.5.2.2. Qualify an adequate number of ramp inspectors to meet inspection requirements. NOTE: Ramp inspectors need not reside in QA.

A13.2.5.2.3. Ensure personnel receive on-the-job inspection training, program familiarization, and a comprehensive understanding of the ramp inspection checklist before performing ramp inspections. There is no FAA certification requirement for the Ramp Inspection program.

A13.2.5.2.4. Although not required, personnel conducting ramp inspections are highly encouraged to view the video “Enroute for Safety Preflight Inspection”, which can be ordered at http://dodimagery.afis.osd.mil/index.html.

A13.2.5.2.5. Provide a detailed sequence of events message to HQ AMC/A4MMP by close of business the next duty day if an international ramp inspection is missed.

A13.2.5.2.6. Ensure timely assignment of inspections to qualified inspectors.

A13.2.5.2.7. Provide inspector with trip kit for ramp inspections consisting of this instruction, AMC Forms 234, AMC Ramp Inspection Checklist, point of contact list, and other items as required, e.g., reflective vest/belt, flashlight, extra batteries, clip board, inspection mirror, etc. Also, ensure documentation identifying inspector's qualifications is included.

A13.2.5.2.8. Ensure problems encountered by inspectors are properly elevated for resolution.

A13.2.5.2.9. Develop a ramp inspection schedule using GDSS II, and the AMC Mission Encode/Decode tables. Extract all international missions applicable to unit inspection program and a minimum of twenty five percent of domestic/SAAM charter missions. It is the responsibility of the unit program manager to review schedules and ensure 100

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percent of internationally scheduled charters are inspected. Contact AMC/A4MMP for a list of ICAOs assigned to each base.

A13.2.5.2.10. Ensure a legible and properly filled out copy of the AMC Form 234 is emailed to amc.a3bs@scott.af.mil and amc.a4mmp.main.pp@scott.af.mil within 3 duty days or upon returning from TDY.

A13.2.5.2.11. Ensure points of contact are established at civilian airports far enough in advance to gain access to aircraft to be inspected.

A13.2.5.3. Ramp Inspectors will:

A13.2.5.3.1. Be a minimum 5 skill level with a flight line maintenance AFSC.

A13.2.5.3.2. Ensure they receive the proper training and document the training in their CFETP (if applicable) and in the MIS.

A13.2.5.3.3. Conduct ramp inspections of aircraft as directed by the Ramp Inspection Program Manager or HQ AMC/A4MMP.

A13.2.5.3.4. Wear ABU/BDUs when conducting inspections at military installations.

When conducting inspections at civilian airports, civilian clothes will be worn. Proper PPE (e.g., hearing protection, reflective belts, safety shoes/boots) will be used/worn when required.

A13.2.5.4. MOC will provide communications support to ramp inspectors and program managers as required (e.g., notifying down range MOC of missed ramp inspection).

A13.3. Ramp Inspections for International Channel Missions. This section applies to scheduled international passenger charters of civilian aircraft and selected SAAM and exercise missions performed by civilian air carriers.

A13.3.1. Required Inspection Schedules. These schedules are developed by QA program manager using GDSS II and the AMC Mission Encode/Decode tables.

A13.3.2. QA program managers will maintain close coordination with the appropriate passenger service representatives in order to obtain timely mission changes.

A13.4. Inspection Functions. Conducting ramp inspections involves four distinct functions:

performance, documentation, communication, and forms distribution.

A13.4.1. General guidance for performing ramp inspections is as follows:

A13.4.1.1. Before conducting the AMC ramp inspection, the maintenance inspector will notify the pilot, engineer, or the carrier station representative. This inspection is a visual, walk around check. It does not entail unfastening engine cowlings, airframe inspection panels, etc., unless necessary to resolve discrepancies (e.g., engine cowling may require removal to determine the severity or source of an oil leak.) Any removal of inspection

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panels or cowling will be accomplished only by a crewmember or company maintenance representative. The government representative will not remove these panels.

A13.4.1.2. A check will be made of the aircraft log noting write-ups and corrective actions taken or deferred. Some carriers may use either a separate section of the logbook or another book to record carryover/deferred items. NOTE: Civil air carriers operate under FAA regulations that, in many respects, differ from military technical orders and instructions. When a ramp inspector determines a discrepancy is not satisfactory, the discrepancy will be reviewed with the appropriate crewmembers or carrier maintenance representative. The air carrier representative must produce an appropriate maintenance technical manual (reference) or minimum equipment list (MEL) to determine the mechanical condition of the aircraft system in question. Members of the Armed Forces will deplane or not board the aircraft until the discrepancy is corrected or determined satisfactory according to an appropriate technical reference.

A13.4.1.3. In all cases when serious deficiencies are noted, only the FAA representative has the authority to ground the aircraft in question. When FAA assistance is needed, use the following procedures in sequence.

A13.4.1.3.1. The ramp inspector will call the FAA Operations Center (Commercial 202-267-3333) and request contact with the designated safety inspector on call for the Certificate Holding District Office (CHDO) responsible for the particular air carrier in question. The on call safety inspector could be either an operations or maintenance specialist. In any event, they will answer the question or arrange for the appropriate maintenance inspector to return the call.

A13.4.1.3.2. If the ramp inspector believes a serious deficiency exists which cannot be resolved, their responsibility is to brief the on-site local AMC commander, senior AMC representative, or senior military official onboard a DOD chartered aircraft.

The senior military member onboard aircraft has the authority to order members of the Armed Forces to leave the aircraft if that authority determines a condition exists on the aircraft which may endanger the safety of the members, even though the FAA representative does not ground the aircraft. HQ AMC/A4MMP and HQ AMC/A3BS will be promptly notified of any such action through appropriate channels.

A13.4.1.4. Ramp inspectors will provide a copy of AMC Form 234 of the completed inspection to the carrier at their request or as directed by HQ AMC/A4MMP or HQ

AMC/A3BS.

A13.4.1.5. If a serious problem exists with a ramp inspection at a station where there is a QAE, inform the QAE of the problem. A completed copy of the AMC Form 234 will be provided to the QAE on their request.

A13.4.1.6. Check the following items during the ramp inspection:

A13.4.1.6.1. Airworthiness certificate. This certificate must be displayed inside the aircraft.

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A13.4.1.6.2. Flight deck. Check the flight deck for general condition and cleanliness.

This check will include windshields and windows, crew seats and safety belts, instruments (flight/engine), smoke and oxygen masks, fire extinguisher, emergency ax, availability of crew checklists (normal and emergency), and crew oxygen system for quantity.

A13.4.1.6.3. Radar. In determining if weather avoidance radar is satisfactory, the inspector will check the logbook and ask an appropriate crewmember if the weather avoidance radar system is operating satisfactorily. In the event the logbook indicates repetitive failures of any of these systems, discuss conditions noted with the aircraft captain and/or flight engineer.

A13.4.1.6.4. Radios. The same procedures for determining operable weather avoidance radar apply. Use as a guide in deciding the satisfactory or unsatisfactory conditionof radios and instruments.

A13.4.1.6.5. Pressurization system. Check the logbook for air conditioning and pressurization conditions/problems. Ask the captain and/or flight engineer if any problems exist.

A13.4.1.6.6. Wing deicers. Check logbook to determine that the deicing system is operating.

A13.4.1.6.7. Passenger/cargo area. Check passenger/cargo area for general condition and cleanliness. This check will include the following: security of seats in tracks, safety belts, fire extinguisher, flashlight, and passenger oxygen equipment (and quantity.)

A13.4.1.6.8. Emergency exits, signs, and markings. Visually check all emergency exits for legible and highly visible markings. Verify that emergency exit handles and instructions for opening are on or near each door.

A13.4.1.6.9. Evacuation devices. Verify that an inflatable escape slide is at each emergency floor level exit. Instructions for its use will be on, or near, the slide's container.

A13.4.1.6.10. Emergency illumination. The emergency lighting system for cabin and exits must be independent from the main cabin lighting system. Each carrier is required by FAR to have a minimum number of emergency exit lights operational. Check the carrier’s MEL for minimum quantity.

A13.4.1.6.11. Megaphones. Two megaphones are required in the passenger cabin on each airplane with seating capacity of more than 99 passengers: one installed forward and the other at the most rearward location where they are readily accessible to a flight attendant's seat.

A13.4.1.6.12. Life rafts. A sufficient number of life rafts of such rated capacity and buoyancy as to accommodate all occupants of the airplane must be provided. Applies to aircraft with operation extended over water.

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A13.4.1.6.13. Signal flares. Suitable pyrotechnic signal devices must be available. They may be stowed in the cabin or the life rafts. Type and quantity will be as approved in the carrier's operating manual.

A13.4.1.6.14. Emergency radios. There will be at least one emergency radio available in the aircraft cabin. The radio will be securely stored in such a way so as to permit rapid accessibility.

A13.4.1.6.15. Life vests. Verify that each passenger, adult or child will be provided a life vest. They must be marked "adult" for use by passengers 7 years or older, "child" for use by children 6 years or younger, or "adult/child" for use by either adults or children. While the contractor will not be restricted to the use of any particular brand, type, or model of FAA-approved life vest, the use of a mixture of vest types or models requiring more than one donning procedure will not be allowed on any aircraft. This does not prohibit the use of separate adult and child vests.

A13.4.1.6.16. Stowage of survival gear. All required life rafts, life vests, and signaling devices will be easily accessible and installed in conspicuously marked, approved locations. Proper stowage of life vests is considered to be in a pocket in front of each seat or under the seat. When rafts are stowed in the cabin, they will be secured by a means, which will permit rapid availability.

A13.4.1.6.17. Inflation devices. Inflation devices, when possible, will be checked to ensure cylinder devices have not been expended. In no case will the inspector remove life rafts from stowed positions or unbutton covers in order to reach the carbon dioxide (CO2) cylinders.

A13.4.1.6.18. Emergency equipment inspection. Ensure automated external defibrillators (AED) and emergency medical kit (EMK) are available. All emergency equipment must show proof of inspection by the carrier.

A13.4.1.6.19. Aircraft Exterior:

A13.4.1.6.19.1. Condition and cleanliness. Check the aircraft exterior for the general condition and cleanliness. This check will include the following: security of doors and panels, emergency exit markings/instructions, condition of landing, navigation, and anti-collision lights.

A13.4.1.6.19.2. Airframe corrosion. Whenever corrosion is noted on the airframe, it will be discussed with the flight engineer and aircraft commander in an effort to determine whether the degree of corrosion represents an unsatisfactory condition. If necessary, reference will be made to the company FAA-approved maintenance manual.

A13.4.1.6.19.3. Engines. The engines will be inspected for such items as cracked and warped blades, oil, and fuel leaks. Conditions, which may appear doubtful, will be discussed with the aircraft commander and the flight engineer. The maintenance manual should be checked if necessary.

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A13.4.1.6.19.4. Fuel leaks. Consideration will be given to the location ofthe leak and the severity. FAA does not allow a leak in an enclosed area such as the wheel well or baggage compartment. When in doubt, request assistance from the aircrew or maintenance representative in reviewing the FAA-approved maintenance manual in an effort to determine whether the leak is a "go" or "no-go" item.

A13.4.1.6.19.5. Hydraulic system. In the event there is doubt regarding the satisfactory condition of the hydraulic system, the engineer will be requested to review the company's FAA-approved maintenance manual in order to determine whether or notthe leak is a "no-go" condition.

A13.4.1.6.19.6. Oil leaks. When engine oil leaks are reported, review the aircraft maintenance logbook for quantity of oil added for each previous flight as far back as possible. To determine if oil consumption is within limits, have the captain and/or flight engineer verify oil quantities used per hour using the aircraft maintenance manuals. Document results on AMC Form 234.

A13.4.1.6.19.7. Surface controls. The general conditions of the control surfaces will be viewed, including flying tabs, trim tabs, and servo tabs. If there seems to be a condition, which is unsatisfactory, the captain and/or flight engineer will be requested to review the situation. When necessary, reference will be made to the company's FAA-approved maintenance manual.

A13.4.1.6.19.8. Landing gear. Inspector will visually check the general condition of the tires, brakes, and landing gear for serviceability. When reporting tire cuts on AMC Form 234, indicate the total number of cords (body plies) that are cut and the length, width, and depth in inches. When inspectors believe that a cut tire is unsafe, they and the captain and/or flight engineer will check the company FAA-approved maintenance manual to determine whether or not the tire should be replaced.

A13.5. Communicating Ramp Inspection Activities.

A13.5.1. Real time confirmation of ramp inspections that were not accomplished is essential. This will be accomplished by the ramp inspector or through command and control channels to the MOC, HQ AMC/A4MMP (DSN 779-2522 or Commercial 618- 229-2522), and HQ AMC/A3BS.

A13.5.1.1. The location that was unable to perform the ramp inspection is responsible for informing personnel at the downrange location of the requirement to accomplish the inspection.

A13.5.2. HQ AMC/A4MMP will coordinate with other major commands as required to accomplish ramp inspections and to ensure maximum efficiency and utilization of resources. To ensure program integrity and standardization of process, the command and its units will follow the guidance within this instruction.

A13.5.3. In the event that an international ramp inspection is not accomplished, the responsible ramp inspector will initiate steps to notify MOC at a down line station that an

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inspection was missed and will need to be accomplished. Also, contact HQ AMC/A4MMP and HQ AMC/A3BS when an inspection is missed.

A13.5.4. Units Ramp Inspection Program Managers will conduct random inspections of domestic charter missions with a goal of inspecting 25 percent per month. Follow the same inspection procedures as established in this instruction for international charter missions.

A13.5.5. Distribution. A blank AMC Form 234 is available at http://www.e-publishing.af.mil/shared/media/epubs/amc234.xfd. Inspectors will provide the group ramp inspection program manager with the completed AMC Form 234 as soon as possible.

A13.6. Documenting the Ramp Inspection. AMC Form 234 is the checklist used to perform the ramp inspection and document inspection results.

A13.6.1. The heading section is used to document the date (Julian/calendar), time aircraft inspection complete, inspection location (base or airport), and station (International Civil Aviation Organization [ICAO]) code, inspection (departure or en route), complete mission number, carrier, aircraft type, tail number, and type mission (passenger or cargo) and (international, domestic, or SAAM/exercise.)

A13.6.2. Section 1 lists the items to be inspected on the flight deck. Items 12 through 16 will have to be confirmed with the aircrew unless the system condition can be determined by flight log discrepancies.

A13.6.3. Section 2 lists the items to be inspected in the main cabin. NOTE: The items in Section 2 will be inspected as required, depending on whether the aircraft is in a passenger or cargo configuration.

A13.6.4. Section 3 lists the items to be inspected on the aircraft exterior.

A13.6.5. Section 4 (Other Inspection Items Not Listed) is to be used to mark special items or to note an item not listed elsewhere on the form.

A13.6.6. The final two blocks on the form are for documenting the inspector's name, grade, employee number, unit, phone number, and signature.

A13.6.7. During the inspection, the inspector will mark the blocks indicating whether the items are "Not Required," "Satisfactory," "Minor Discrepancy," and "Unsatisfactory."

A13.6.7.1. If an item is marked "Minor Discrepancy" or "Unsatisfactory," the inspector will ensure that all entries made in the remarks block are legible and sufficiently detailed to describe the discrepancy and corrective action taken.

A13.6.7.2. The discrepancies should be corrected and documented according to the airline maintenance manual or carried forward according to an approved

MEL.

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A13.6.7.3. If it is carried forward for corrective action at the next maintenance facility, then the ramp inspector will enter the following information in the remarks section of the AMC Form 234.

A13.6.7.3.1. Discrepancy and date.

A13.6.7.3.2. MEL number.

A13.6.7.3.3. Condition of write-up (flyable or appearance.)

A13.6.7.3.4. Log book page number.

A13.7. Terms.

A13.7.1. Preflight Safety Inspection: (a synonymous term with the Ramp Inspection Program.) A ramp inspection is a visual inspection of a civilian aircraft for obvious defects that may indicate the aircraft is unsafe. This inspection does not in any way overrule or duplicate FAA airworthiness certification or the civilian aircraft technical manual requirements. This inspection is not an airworthiness inspection but is meant to serve as a check for obvious safety defects before departure.