Aviation Security at Archerfield Airport:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does security at Archerfield Airport need to be upgraded?

Federal Government legislation, which became effective in March 2005, requires many Australian airports to upgrade their security arrangements.

Like all other GAAP airports, Archerfield Airport Corporation (AAC) must implement a Transport Security Program (TSP) at Archerfield Airport in order to comply with this legislation.

What is a Transport Security Program and why does Archerfield Airport need one?

This is a preventative security plan that sets out certain security measures and procedures for an airport. Archerfield Airport is required to prepare and implement such a program in order to comply with the legislation.

All Transport Security Programs must be submitted to, and approved by, the Department of Transport and Regional Services (DOTARS) prior to being implemented.

Can I see the entire Transport Security Program for Archerfield Airport?

No. For security reasons the complete Archerfield Airport program cannot be made publicly available at this time.

What things does the Transport Security Program for Archerfield include?

The Transport Security Program for Archerfield Airport includes a range of initiatives aimed at upgrading the physical and procedural security at the airport.  These initiatives include:

Will there be changes to Airside arrangements at Archerfield Airport?

Yes.  A new Airside Vehicle Control Handbook (AVCH) (available from here) will detail specific arrangements for Airside access and movements by vehicles.  These arrangements will include:

What do these changes mean for tenants with both Landside/Airside access through their tenancy site?

The Aviation Transport Security Act 2004, the Aviation Transport Security Regulations 2005, and the Airports (Control of On-Airport Activities) Regulations 1997, as well as the tenancy lease with AAC, all mean that tenants with sites which have Landside/Airside access are legally responsible for the actions of anyone accessing Airside via their site.

This means tenants will need to establish, and enforce, their own appropriate security measures to ensure only authorised persons access Airside via their site (eg: ensuring hangar doors Airside and Landside are never open at the same time).

How will I gain access to Airside/Landside if I cannot walk through my own premises?

In addition to the pin-controlled door at the terminal building, pedestrian access gates will be located at various locations on the Airport perimeter to assist users of the Airfield who cannot gain Airside/Landside access through their own premises. For further information, please click here.

Will there be any changes to vehicle parking arrangements at Archerfield Airport?

Yes.  Vehicles will be allowed to park in the Landside public carparks for up to 12 hours.  A long-term carpark will be available for those requiring longer parking. Alternatively, public transport is available at www.transinfo.com.au 

What about vehicle parking Airside?

For those granted the privilege to drive Airside, a parking limit of 30 minutes will exist on all Airside areas for the un/loading of goods and vehicles must be accompanied by the authorised driver at all times unless:

I fly away from Archerfield for extended periods, where can I securely park my car?

If you are a Lessee and have been granted the privilege to drive Airside, you can continue to park your car for extended periods within your Leased Area. AAC is also providing a long-term carpark for this purpose. Alternatively, public transport is available at www.transinfo.com.au  

I conduct charter operations and pick-up my passengers from the terminal building, how will I gain access to and from Airside?

A pin-code controlled door will be installed for Airside/Landside access via the airport terminal.  The code will be changed on a regular basis and will be displayed on the Airside of the terminal door. Alternatively, persons requiring this pin will need to contact the AAC office during normal business hours prior to arrival with proof of identification.

What security patrol arrangements will exist at Archerfield Airport?

AAC will continue to engage a private security firm to patrol the airport. In addition, the Australian Federal Police and the Office of Transport Security are also regularly patrolling both Landside and Airside at Archerfield Airport. AAC operations staff will also continue to conduct regular patrols.

What is an Authority to Drive Airside (ADA)?

This is an identification card, issued by AAC, displaying the authorised driver’s photo, card expiration date and category of use indicating their permitted driving areas.  In accordance with the Airports Act 1996 those issued an ADA must carry it at all times they drive a vehicle Airside and must produce it if requested by AAC operational staff, their contracted security firm or Australian Federal Police.

An ADA will be valid for 1 year and cannot be transferred to, or used by, anyone other than the person it is issued to. (ADA application forms are available from here)

What is an Authority to Use Airside (AUA)?

This is a sticker, issued by AAC, which in accordance with the Airports Act 1996 must be applied to all vehicles driving Airside without an escort.  The AUA will detail the vehicles registration number, the expiration date of the licence and the permitted areas that the vehicle may be driven Airside.

An AUA is not transferable to any other vehicle and cannot be used at any other Airport. (AUA application forms are available from here)

How do I find out more about ADA/AUA arrangements?

A Vehicle Control Handbook will detail all the specific arrangements and responsibilities associated with ADA/AUA’s.  This handbook is now available from the AAC office or from this website by clicking here. 

Can an ADA/AUA be cancelled before expiry?

Yes.  An ADA/AUA can be cancelled for failure to abide by Airside rules and regulations detailed in the Archerfield Airport Vehicle Control Handbook or comply with the Airports (Control of On-Airport Activities) Regulations 1997 or the Aviation Transport Security Act 2004.

How do I apply for an ADA/AUA?

Application forms for an ADA/AUA are available from the AAC office and this website by clicking here. The application process will include an exam based on the Vehicle Control Handbook for which a 75% pass grade must be attained before an ADA/AUA can be issued.

I have some specific questions not covered by this FAQ, how can I find out more?

We are keen to help you understand and comply with these important new security initiatives. Please call 3277 5722  if you would like to ask further questions.