Key Takeaways
• IBAC launched CORE risk management program for small business aviation on May 19, 2025, at EBACE in Geneva.
• CORE offers a self-paced online pathway with practical tools to improve safety for limited-resource aviation companies.
• CORE aligns with ICAO standards, supporting small companies’ safety and enabling progression to advanced IBAC programs.
The International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) has taken a major step to support safety in business aviation by launching its new CORE risk management pathway. This announcement was made at the European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva, Switzerland, on May 19, 2025. The new program is designed to help smaller organizations in the business aviation sector build strong safety practices, even if they have limited resources or staff.
This move comes at a time when the industry is facing new challenges, including a push for sustainability, growing security concerns, and the need to meet international standards. By introducing the CORE risk management pathway, IBAC aims to make safety management more accessible for all, especially for those who may find existing programs too complex or demanding.
What Is the CORE Risk Management Pathway?
The CORE risk management pathway is a new initiative from the International Business Aviation Council. While the exact meaning of the acronym “CORE” has not been shared, the program is built to give small and busy aviation companies a simple, practical way to manage risks and improve safety.
Who is it for?
– Small business aviation organizations
– Companies involved in flight operations, ground handling, aircraft maintenance, and small aerodrome operations
– Teams with limited staff or resources who may find it hard to use more complex safety management systems
What does it offer?
– A self-paced online program
– Practical tools to organize and improve risk management
– Simple methods to find and fix gaps in current safety practices
– Resources to help companies set up or improve their safety processes
– Tools to check and track progress internally
The goal is to help these organizations build a strong foundation for safety, without overwhelming them with complicated requirements.
Why Did IBAC Launch the CORE Pathway?
Kurt Edwards, the Director General of IBAC, explained the reason behind this new program. He said that many member associations have asked for a simple and flexible risk management tool. The IBAC Governing Board agreed, and the CORE product was created to meet this need.
Edwards said, “Many smaller organizations within the business aviation industry want to build a stronger foundation for managing safety but may be challenged by limitations of time and resources for non-core tasks. The CORE product is being designed as a resource for those looking for a solution to help them establish or improve existing safety practices and processes in a simple format and with tools to internally assess the organization’s progress.”
This statement shows that the CORE pathway is a direct response to feedback from the industry. It is meant to help those who want to improve safety but do not have the time, money, or staff to use more advanced systems.
How Does the CORE Pathway Work?
The CORE risk management pathway is designed to be easy to use and flexible. Here’s how it works:
Self-Paced Online Learning
Organizations can work through the program at their own speed. This is important for small teams who may not have a lot of extra time.
Practical Tools and Resources
The program provides tools that help companies:
– Organize their current risk management processes
– Spot any missing parts or weaknesses in their safety practices
– Set up or improve their safety systems in a way that makes sense for their size and needs
Internal Progress Checks
Companies can use built-in tools to check how well they are doing. This helps them see where they have improved and where they still need to work.
Foundation for Future Growth
After finishing the program, organizations will have a basic risk management system in place. This can help them move on to more advanced safety programs in the future, if they choose.
How Does CORE Fit with Other IBAC Programs?
The International Business Aviation Council is known for its work in setting safety standards for business aviation. The CORE risk management pathway is the latest addition to a group of programs that includes:
- IS-BAO (International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations): This program, started in 2002, gives companies a framework for safe and effective operations. It helps organizations use best practices in their daily work.
- IS-BAH (International Standard for Business Aviation Handling): This program focuses on safety in ground handling operations.
- Progressive Stage 3 (PS3): Launched in 2020, this program allows qualified operators to keep their Stage 3 certification with a series of short, low-impact audits.
The CORE pathway is designed as a starting point. It is especially helpful for smaller organizations that may not be ready for the full IS-BAO or IS-BAH programs. After completing CORE, companies may find it easier to move on to these more advanced standards.
Why Is This Important for the Industry?
The launch of the CORE risk management pathway comes at a time when business aviation is changing quickly. Several factors make this new program especially important:
1. Focus on Sustainability
In October 2021, IBAC and its 15 member associations promised to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. While the CORE program is mainly about safety, it is being introduced as the industry is working to become more sustainable. Safe operations and environmental responsibility often go hand in hand.
2. Growing Security Concerns
Earlier in 2025, IBAC offered an online course called “Business Aviation Security Fundamentals” (BASF). This course helped companies understand and deal with security risks. The new CORE program supports these efforts by focusing on safety, which is closely linked to security.
3. Meeting International Standards
IBAC’s programs, including CORE, are designed to match the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This means that companies using these programs are better prepared for both domestic and international operations. For more information on ICAO standards, you can visit the official ICAO website.
4. Supporting Small Organizations
Many safety programs are built for large companies with lots of staff and resources. Smaller organizations often struggle to keep up. The CORE risk management pathway is designed to fill this gap, making safety management possible for everyone.
What Happens Next?
The CORE risk management pathway was officially introduced at EBACE 2025, but the program is still being developed. IBAC is working with its member associations to finish building the platform. The exact date when the program will be fully available has not been shared yet.
Organizations interested in joining the program should keep an eye on IBAC’s official website and announcements for updates on when they can sign up and how the process will work.
What Does This Mean for Stakeholders?
The launch of the CORE risk management pathway will have different effects on various groups in the business aviation industry.
For Small Aviation Companies
- Easier Access to Safety Tools: Small companies can now use a program that fits their size and needs.
- Less Time and Money Needed: The self-paced, online format means companies do not have to spend a lot of time or money to improve safety.
- Better Safety Practices: Even with limited resources, these organizations can build a strong safety foundation.
For Larger Organizations
- Pathway for Growth: The CORE program can serve as a first step for new or growing companies before they move on to more advanced programs like IS-BAO or IS-BAH.
- Industry-Wide Improvement: As more companies improve their safety practices, the whole industry becomes safer.
For Industry Associations
- Meeting Member Needs: Associations can now offer their members a practical tool that addresses common challenges.
- Stronger Industry Reputation: By supporting safety at all levels, associations help the industry maintain a strong reputation.
For Regulators and Authorities
- Better Compliance: Companies using the CORE pathway are more likely to meet national and international safety standards.
- Easier Oversight: A common framework makes it easier for regulators to check compliance and offer support.
How Does CORE Compare to Other Risk Management Programs?
There are many risk management programs in aviation, but most are designed for larger organizations. These programs can be expensive, time-consuming, and hard to use for small teams. The CORE risk management pathway stands out because:
- It is simple and easy to use
- It is designed for small organizations with limited resources
- It offers practical tools and support
- It can be used as a stepping stone to more advanced programs
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the introduction of the CORE pathway could help close the safety gap between large and small organizations in business aviation. By making risk management more accessible, IBAC is helping to raise safety standards across the industry.
What Should Organizations Do Now?
If you are part of a small business aviation company, or if you work with one, here are some steps you can take:
- Stay Informed: Follow IBAC’s official website and announcements for updates on the CORE risk management pathway.
- Assess Your Needs: Think about your current safety practices. Are there gaps or areas that need improvement?
- Prepare for Enrollment: Once the program is available, be ready to sign up and start using the tools and resources offered.
- Plan for the Future: Consider how the CORE program can help you build a foundation for future growth and possibly move on to more advanced safety programs.
The Role of the European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition
The European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition (EBACE) is one of the most important events in the business aviation calendar. By choosing to announce the CORE risk management pathway at EBACE, IBAC made sure that the news reached a wide audience of industry leaders, regulators, and companies from around the world.
This event is known for bringing together experts to discuss new trends, share best practices, and showcase new products and services. The launch of the CORE program at EBACE highlights its importance and the strong support it has from the industry.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Safety in Business Aviation
The introduction of the CORE risk management pathway is just the latest step in IBAC’s ongoing work to improve safety in business aviation. As the industry continues to change, with new technologies, environmental goals, and security challenges, programs like CORE will play a key role in helping organizations adapt and thrive.
By focusing on the needs of smaller organizations, IBAC is making sure that safety is not just for the biggest players. Instead, every company, no matter its size, can build strong safety practices and contribute to a safer industry for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The CORE risk management pathway from the International Business Aviation Council is a welcome addition to the world of business aviation safety. It offers a practical, easy-to-use solution for small organizations that want to improve their safety practices but may not have the resources for more complex programs.
As the program is rolled out, more details will become available about how it works, how much it costs, and how companies can join. For now, the message is clear: safety is for everyone, and IBAC is working hard to make sure that every organization has the tools it needs to succeed.
For more information about IBAC and its programs, you can visit the official IBAC website. If you are interested in international standards for aviation safety, the ICAO website is a valuable resource.
By staying informed and taking advantage of new programs like CORE, business aviation organizations can continue to grow, improve safety, and meet the challenges of a changing world.
Learn Today
International Business Aviation Council (IBAC) → Global organization promoting best practices and safety standards in business aviation worldwide.
CORE risk management pathway → A new IBAC program helping small aviation companies improve risk management and safety via online practical tools.
European Business Aviation Conference and Exhibition (EBACE) → Annual key event in Geneva where business aviation leaders gather to share innovations and standards.
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) → United Nations agency setting global aviation standards to ensure safe, secure, and sustainable air transport.
IS-BAO (International Standard for Business Aircraft Operations) → IBAC’s longstanding program offering scalable safety frameworks for business aircraft operators.
This Article in a Nutshell
IBAC introduced the CORE risk management pathway at EBACE 2025 to help small aviation companies enhance safety with simple, flexible online tools fitting limited resources.
— By VisaVerge.com
