Operate Safely and Confidently in the Airside Environment 

Yellowknife Airport (YZF) ensures that airside safety remains a top priority through a certified Airside Vehicle Operator’s Permit (AVOP) program. For employees who need to drive on aprons, taxiways, or runways, AVOP certification is essential to maintain operational integrity and safety. 

Whether you're seeking to apply for a DA Permit (for aprons and service roads) or a D Permit (covering all aprons and taxiways), the AVOP program prepares you with the knowledge, training, and resources to operate confidently in this highly regulated environment. Applicants are guided through the process of obtaining necessary certifications, such as ROC-A, and participating in training that ensures compliance with airside traffic directives. 

Read more about our AVOP program to take the next step in ensuring safety and operational excellence. 

What is an AVOP? 

An AVOP certifies airport employees to operate vehicles and equipment airside, which means driving on our aprons, runways and taxiways. 

Types of AVOP 

• A DA Permit allows an employee to drive vehicles and equipment on apron areas and service roads. 
• A D Permit allows an employee to operate vehicles and equipment only on the apron and taxiways of the airport, as outlined in the local traffic directives. 

Key Items to note 

• A Valid Class 5 Territorial or Provincial driver’s license are required prior to applying for an AVOP permit. 
• Obtaining an AVOP is based on an employee’s need and right to access these areas as it pertains to their role. 

How to Apply for an AVOP 

1. Application

Contract your signing authority to complete your AVOP application. The application must be signed by the signing authority before your appointment.

2. AVOP Study Packages and AVOP D/DA

The following material is necessary to prepare the applicant for the written and practical AVOP tests. This material also provides AVOP holders with the knowledge required to safely and competently operate a vehicle within the approved areas. 

This document is required for all AVOP holders to understand their obligations. 

3. Review of Airside Traffic Directives

The Airside Traffic Directives combine the regulations and policies governing the use of the D and DA permits for the specialized airside environment at YZF. 

It is the intent of the directives to ensure the safest operations for everyone while working airside and to minimize all risk to as low as reasonably practicable. 

4. Restricted Operator Certificate-Aeronautical (ROC-A) (D AVOP ONLY)

Applicants must then obtain a Restricted Operator Certificate-Aeronautical (ROC-A), if applying for a D AVOP. This certificate can be obtained from Industry Canada or a designated authority on behalf of Industry Canada. The Industry Canada study guide is available here. To avoid delays in obtaining a D AVOP, we recommend obtaining a ROC-A before completing the required exam and driving tests. 

Employees must bring their driver's license and the (signed) completed AVOP application form and ROC_A for D AVOP.

5. Practical driving test 

A driving test in the employee’s company vehicle is completed to prove competency and to ensure safe operations. 

6. Visit the Pass Office

Book an appointment at the Pass Office here. 

Employees must bring their driver’s license and the completed AVOP Application form