IS-BAO.
IS-BAO, the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations, is a voluntary safety standard for business aviation operators published by the International Business Aviation Council, IBAC. Launched in 2002 and built on safety management system principles, IS-BAO registration has three stages, from confirming an SMS exists, to managing risk effectively, to a fully embedded safety culture.
| Term | IS-BAO |
|---|---|
| Used in | Private aviation, charter brokerage and operations |
| Related terms | ARGUS rating, Wyvern Wingman, Air operator certificate (AOC) |
| Sources | 1 listed below |
What does IS-BAO mean in practice?
IS-BAO is different from ARGUS and Wyvern in that it is a standard rather than a rating.
IBAC, which represents national business aviation associations, describes it as the only ICAO-recognised industry standards programme developed specifically for business aviation. An operator registers at Stage 1, 2 or 3 after an audit by an accredited auditor. Stage 1 confirms the safety management system infrastructure is in place. Stage 2 confirms safety risks are being managed effectively. Stage 3 confirms safety management is embedded in the business and a positive safety culture is sustained. IS-BAO is used by both commercial charter operators and private corporate flight departments, so an IS-BAO registration alone does not tell you that an operator holds an AOC. Check both. Stage 3 registration is a reasonable indicator of a mature safety organisation, but it is voluntary, paid for by the operator, and renewed periodically rather than continuously monitored.
Questions
What does IS-BAO mean?
IS-BAO, the International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations, is a voluntary safety standard for business aviation operators published by the International Business Aviation Council, IBAC. Launched in 2002 and built on safety management system principles, IS-BAO registration has three stages, from confirming an SMS exists, to managing risk effectively, to a fully embedded safety culture.
Sources
- IBAC: IS-BAO (accessed 2026-09-20)
Last reviewed 20 September 2026 by Empty Leg Exclusive Editorial Team.