Tall Equipment Operations

The operation of cranes could present a serious hazard to air navigation, particularly during the approach and departure phases of flight when aircraft are at low altitudes. In addition to the creation of an obstacle, cranes could also interfere with navigation and/or communication equipment. Implications to flight safety may be mitigated by coordinating crane and aircraft operations through the advance notification of the crane. Officially safeguarded aerodromes issue safeguarding maps which are used by the Local Planning Authorities (LPAs). Every time a crane is detailed in the planning permission, LPAs should provide the crane user with the contact details of
the aerodrome operator or take part in the consultations of the crane.

Notification is required if a crane is:

•  In order to co-ordinate the safe operation of cranes in the vicinity of aerodromes any proposed crane operation within 6km of an aerodrome, at heights of 10 metres above ground level or that of the surrounding structures or trees,
• To be operated at or above a height of 100m AGL regardless of location or height of surrounding structures.

To obtain permission to operate a crane within 6km of the aerodrome, the crane operator/developer must apply for the issue of a Newcastle Airport Tall Equipment Permit.

Applications should be made to Newcastle Airport not less than 28 working days from the planned crane operation. This will allow consultation time and the possibly of further instructions from aerodrome operator. Request for a Tall Equipment Permit sent less than 28 days in advance will be subject to an additional 'express processing' charge. 

Charges:

The standard charge to process a Tall Equipment Permit is £295. Should the permit be needed for a date within the next 28 days, an express fee of £495 will be charged. 

The following information will be required:

• Applicant details; Name, address, contact details.
• Development detail: Address, Co-ordinates for the precise location of the crane operation (Lat/Long & Easting/Northing).
• Crane operator details, crane company, Type of crane e.g. Mobile, Tower, etc.
• The maximum jib height of the crane. Above ground level (AGL)
• The maximum required working height of the crane. Above ground level (AGL)
• Number of cranes.
• Lighting.
• Dates and times of the operation.

Once the form is submitted you will be contacted by the Airport to make payment. Once payment is received, the safeguarding assessment process will take place and if a positive decision is reached a crane Safeguarding Assessment/Approval document will be sent to the applicant with the outcome. If the application is rejected the applicant will be contacted with possible alternatives and suggestions.

Please click here to access the form.