Airport Safety and Operations Specialist (ASOS) Schools

ASOS Background

In a partnership lasting more than 20 years, the AAAE and the FAA  have offered baseline and recurrent training for airport industry professionals overseeing the operations of airports and military airfields of all sizes. During this period, over 10,000 public-use, DOD/military, maintenance and safety personnel have attended these schools. Broken up between Basic ASOS and Advanced ASOS, the subject matter of the schools is structured to allow attendees to receive a solid overview of 14 CFR Part 139 requirements, apply knowledge learned through practical case studies and provide an opportunity to discuss possible revisions or updates to federal guidelines that affect the way airports comply with the regulations.

The primary goal of these ASOS Schools is to increase the knowledge and understanding of the airport and military personnel who, on a day-to-day basis, play a major role in ensuring that your airport operates safely and meets the requirements of Part 139. Although ASOS Schools are voluntary, the FAA Airport Certification Safety Inspectors recognize the intrinsic value of these schools and accept them as one of the many forms of complying with some training requirements in Part 139. ASOS Schools also give an opportunity for airport personnel to learn what changes are in effect, address issues on complying with self-inspection programs, and the role of the Airport Certification Safety Inspector.

Basic ASOS School

The two-day Basic ASOS School is designed for individuals who are relatively new to airport operations, or have not attended a Basic ASOS before and are currently working in airport management, planning or operations. Through prepared presentations instructed by industry professionals, the Basic ASOS School will cover the following elements of Part 139 (subject to change): 14 CFR Part 139 Requirements, Records, Paved/Safety Areas, Markings, Signs & Lighting, ARFF, AEP, Self-Inspection Program.
Why Attend Basic ASOS?

  • Learn 14 CFR Part 139 subject matter from industry experts
  • ASOS schools are an excellent option available for airport operators to comply with 139.303(c-e)
  • Become familiar with the latest Advisory Circulars (AC) as it relates to Airport Operations
  • Network with Airport Operators and industry professionals from around the country
  • Apply airport operational techniques learned from this course to your airport


Advanced ASOS School

Advanced Schools are tailored for individuals who have either attended an earlier ASOS school, experienced one or more annual FAA Certification Inspections or have at least two years of experience in airport operations. The school has fewer prepared presentations, and more group Part 139 problem-solving exercises so that all attendees can actively participate in the proceedings. Participants are encouraged to discuss best management practices and lessons learned at their airports or from other experiences.

Why Attend Advanced ASOS?

  • Apply 14 CFR Part 139, knowledge learned from the Basic ASOS School, and practical experience from your airport to solve airport operational case studies
  • Network with Airport Operators and industry professionals from around the country
  • Apply new airport operational techniques learned from this course to your airport
  • ASOS schools are an excellent option available for airport operators to comply with 139.303(c-e)
  • Learn how to respond to airport operational emergencies

ASOS School On-Site Programs

AAAE is pleased to offer airports and military airfields both the Basic and Advanced ASOS Schools as On-Site Training programs.  With on-site training, you can train an average of 20-50 people at one-time and forgo spending additional monies on hotel, airfare, meals and incidentals. In addition, having an on-site allows the flexibility your facility needs to maintain operational readiness by keeping personnel on property and to conduct training around the your schedule.

Benefits of scheduling on-site training
  • The training programs are adapted specifically to your airport/airfield’s needs and requirements and are brought to your airport when it's convenient for you.
  • The courses are taught by well-respected, experienced aviation management professionals, including airport directors and aviation consultants.
  • AAAE provides innovative, thorough and current course materials, and
  • On-site training is an economical way to train many airport employees at once in as little as one or two days while eliminating travel costs for your staff.
View the schedule of upcoming courses. 
Discover more On-Site Training Programs offered through AAAE.

ASOS Contacts

For more information on ASOS Schools or if you have any questions, please contact:

AAAE Training Department
email: [email protected]