We are introducing a new pavement strength rating system to align with the latest international standards.
The new Aircraft Classification Rating (ACR)/ Pavement Classification Rating (PCR) values will replace the existing Aircraft Classification Number (ACN)/ Pavement Classification Number (PCN) values.
We require aircraft operators and aerodrome operators to transition to the new system by 26 November 2025.
What is ACN/PCN?
ACN/PCN is the pavement strength rating system currently used in Australia.
ACN
An ACN is a number that represents the relative damage caused to the aerodrome pavement's subgrade by an aircraft.
The aircraft's manufacturer sets the ACN of the aircraft.
PCN
A PCN is a number expressing the bearing strength of a pavement. Essentially, a PCN is a number that expresses the load-carrying capacity of a pavement for unrestricted operations.
Airport operators/owners determine the PCN of their runways.
What is ACR/PCR?
ACR/PCR is a newer standardised aircraft pavement strength rating system developed by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
It offers a more accurate evaluation of the strength of airport pavements, providing a better understanding of pavement life, and optimising pavement usage.
The ACR/PCR system will replace the outdated ACN/PCN system, which is inconsistent with modern airport pavement design methods.
The aircraft's manufacturer determines the ACR of the aircraft. Airport operators/owners determine the PCR of their runways.
What this means for Australian aircraft operators
An ACR will replace the aircraft's ACN.
The aircraft manufacturer and aircraft operator are responsible for the transition from ACN to ACR.
Note: Wheeled helicopters greater than 5700 kg maximum take-off weight (MTOW) don't need an ACR because the ICAO Task Force found their Single Wheel Loading is no higher than aircraft below 5700 kg. Runways for aircraft below 5700 kg do not require a published PCR value.
What this means for Australian certified aerodromes
On transition to the new rating system, certified aerodrome operators with runways intended for aircraft of a MTOW greater than 5700 kg must:
- reassess pavement strength
- report this information in the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) En-route Supplement Australia (ERSA).
Timeframe
We are introducing this change gradually with certified aerodromes required to transition by 26 November 2025.
Publishing the PCR
All certified aerodromes can publish their PCR by permanent NOTAM. Airservices Australia will publish them in the AIP ERSA from 12 June 2025 onwards.
PCR and PCN information may co-exist in the ERSA up to 27 November 2025.
All runways without published PCR details as of 27 November 2025 (cutoff date of 7 August 2025) will be published as 'unrated'.