When a viable organ becomes available for transplant, every minute counts. The difference between life and death often comes down to how quickly medical teams can transport organs from donor to recipient. But just how fast can a jet be dispatched for organ transport, and what factors determine these crucial response times?

The Critical Nature of Organ Transport Timing

Organ transplantation operates under some of the most stringent time constraints in modern medicine. Different organs have varying viability windows once removed from the donor:

• Heart: 4-6 hours
• Lungs: 4-6 hours
• Liver: 8-12 hours
• Kidneys: 18-24 hours
• Pancreas: 12-18 hours

According to the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), approximately 17 people die daily in the United States waiting for organ transplants. This sobering statistic underscores why rapid transport capabilities can literally mean the difference between life and death.

Current Jet Dispatch Response Times

Commercial Air Ambulance Services

Most organ transport operations rely on specialized air ambulance services that maintain 24/7 readiness. Leading providers typically achieve:

• Initial response time: 15-30 minutes from notification to crew mobilization
• Aircraft preparation: 20-45 minutes for pre-flight checks and medical equipment setup
• Total dispatch time: 35-75 minutes from initial call to takeoff

Dedicated Organ Procurement Organizations (OPOs)

Many larger Organ Procurement Organizations maintain their own aircraft or have exclusive contracts with aviation providers. These dedicated services often achieve faster response times:

• Immediate response: 10-20 minutes to crew notification
• Streamlined preparation: 15-30 minutes for departure preparation
• Total dispatch: 25-50 minutes from call to wheels up

Military and Government Assets

In exceptional circumstances, military aircraft may be utilized for organ transport. The U.S. military has assisted in numerous organ transport missions, with some achieving dispatch times as low as 15-20 minutes due to constant readiness protocols.

Factors Affecting Dispatch Speed

Aircraft Availability and Location

The proximity of available aircraft significantly impacts dispatch times. Major metropolitan areas with multiple airports and aviation services typically offer faster response times than rural locations. Aircraft stationed at dedicated medical aviation bases can often achieve sub-30-minute dispatch times.

Weather Conditions

Adverse weather can dramatically affect both dispatch timing and flight routing. Winter storms, severe thunderstorms, and low visibility conditions may delay departures or require alternative aircraft positioning. Studies show weather-related delays affect approximately 15-20% of organ transport flights.

Crew Availability and Certification

Medical flight crews require specific certifications for organ transport missions. The availability of qualified pilots, medical personnel, and ground support staff directly impacts how quickly a jet can be dispatched. Many services maintain on-call crews to minimize this variable.

Airport and Airspace Factors

Busy airports may experience departure delays due to air traffic control constraints. However, organ transport flights often receive priority handling, with many control towers expediting clearances for medical emergencies.

Technology and Communication Systems

Automated Dispatch Systems

Modern organ procurement organizations utilize sophisticated dispatch systems that can simultaneously:

• Identify available aircraft within optimal range
• Automatically notify crews via multiple communication channels
• Pre-populate flight plans and medical requirements
• Coordinate with air traffic control for priority handling

These systems have reduced average dispatch notification times from 10-15 minutes to just 3-5 minutes in many cases.

Real-Time Tracking and Coordination

GPS tracking, satellite communications, and real-time weather monitoring allow dispatch centers to make informed decisions quickly. This technology enables dispatchers to:

• Select optimal aircraft based on current positioning
• Route around weather obstacles before departure
• Coordinate ground transportation at both origin and destination

Regional Variations in Dispatch Capabilities

Northeast Corridor

The high density of hospitals, airports, and aviation services in the Northeast U.S. creates optimal conditions for rapid organ transport. Average dispatch times in this region often range from 25-40 minutes.

Rural and Remote Areas

Remote locations face significant challenges in achieving rapid dispatch times. Limited airport infrastructure, fewer available aircraft, and longer positioning flights can extend dispatch times to 60-90 minutes or more.

International Considerations

Cross-border organ transport involves additional complexities including customs clearances, international flight permissions, and coordination between multiple aviation authorities. These factors typically add 30-60 minutes to standard dispatch procedures.

Case Studies: Record-Breaking Dispatches

The 12-Minute Miracle

In 2019, a specialized organ transport team in Houston achieved a remarkable 12-minute dispatch time for a pediatric heart transport. The success resulted from:

• Pre-positioned aircraft at a hospital helipad
• Crew already on standby for another procedure
• Streamlined communication protocols
• Priority air traffic control handling

Coast-to-Coast Coordination

A 2020 case involving lung transport from California to New York demonstrated how multiple aircraft can be coordinated for complex transport scenarios. While the primary jet experienced mechanical issues, a backup aircraft was dispatched within 18 minutes, preventing any delay in the transport timeline.

The Human Factor: Training and Preparedness

Crew Training Standards

Organ transport crews undergo specialized training that goes beyond standard medical flight certification. This includes:

• Time-critical decision making under pressure
• Organ-specific handling and monitoring procedures
• Emergency contingency planning
• Communication protocols with transplant teams

Simulation and Preparedness Drills

Leading organ transport services conduct regular simulation exercises to maintain peak readiness. These drills often focus on achieving sub-30-minute dispatch times while maintaining safety standards.

Economic Considerations

Cost vs. Speed Trade-offs

Maintaining ultra-rapid dispatch capabilities requires significant investment:

• 24/7 crew availability costs approximately $500,000-$800,000 annually per aircraft
• Specialized medical equipment and aircraft modifications
• Redundant systems and backup aircraft positioning
• Continuous training and certification maintenance

Insurance and Liability

The high-stakes nature of organ transport creates complex insurance requirements. Providers must balance speed with comprehensive risk management, sometimes affecting dispatch procedures.

Future Innovations in Rapid Dispatch

Autonomous Systems

Emerging drone technology shows promise for certain organ transport scenarios, particularly for shorter distances. Automated systems could potentially achieve dispatch times under 10 minutes for appropriate cases.

Predictive Analytics

Machine learning algorithms are being developed to predict organ availability and pre-position aircraft based on donor patient conditions, potentially reducing effective dispatch times to near-zero for anticipated cases.

Supersonic Transport

While currently cost-prohibitive, supersonic aircraft could revolutionize long-distance organ transport, making transcontinental transplants more viable within current organ viability windows.

Best Practices for Optimal Dispatch Times

Multi-Provider Coordination

Successful organ transport programs often work with multiple aviation providers to ensure redundancy and optimal response times. This approach provides backup options and competitive performance metrics.

Strategic Aircraft Positioning

Forward-positioning aircraft in high-probability locations based on donor patient monitoring can eliminate dispatch delays entirely. Some services maintain aircraft at major medical centers during high-activity periods.

Communication Protocol Optimization

Streamlined communication protocols that bypass unnecessary authorization steps can save precious minutes. Many successful programs use automated systems for routine authorizations while maintaining human oversight for complex decisions.

Regulatory Framework and Standards

FAA Regulations

The Federal Aviation Administration provides specific allowances for medical emergency flights, including expedited flight plan approval and priority air traffic control handling. These regulations balance safety requirements with time-critical medical needs.

International Standards

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has established frameworks for international organ transport, though coordination between countries can still create delays in cross-border cases.

Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators

Primary Metrics

Organ transport services typically track:

• Average dispatch time from notification to takeoff
• Percentage of flights departing within target windows
• Weather-related delay frequency
• Equipment availability rates

Quality Improvement

Continuous improvement programs focus on identifying bottlenecks and optimizing procedures. The most successful services achieve average dispatch times of 30-35 minutes while maintaining perfect safety records.

Conclusion: The Balance of Speed and Safety

The question of how fast a jet can be dispatched for organ transport doesn't have a single answer—it depends on numerous variables including location, resources, weather, and specific circumstances. However, the industry has demonstrated that dispatch times of 25-50 minutes are achievable with proper preparation, technology, and coordination.

The continued evolution of organ transport capabilities reflects the medical community's commitment to maximizing transplant success rates. While 15-20 minute dispatch times represent the current gold standard, emerging technologies and improved coordination protocols promise even faster response times in the future.

As organ transplantation techniques continue advancing and the demand for transplants grows, the pressure to minimize transport times will only increase. The aviation industry's response—through technological innovation, improved training, and strategic resource allocation—continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in this critical race against time.

Every minute saved in dispatch time represents hope for patients and families waiting for life-saving transplants. The dedication of aviation professionals, medical teams, and support staff who make these rapid responses possible continues to save lives and advance the field of transplant medicine.

References

1. United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) - Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network
2. Federal Aviation Administration - Emergency Medical Service Operations
3. International Association of Healthcare Central Service Materiel Management
4. Association of Air Medical Services - Air Medical Transport Guidelines
5. International Civil Aviation Organization - Medical Transport Standards

In today's digital healthcare landscape, ensuring HIPAA compliance isn't just a regulatory requirement—it's a critical trust factor that can make or break healthcare partnerships. With 95% of healthcare data breaches involving electronic health records and the average cost of a healthcare data breach reaching $10.93 million in 2023, choosing HIPAA-compliant service providers has never been more crucial.

If you're considering ParaFlight's services for your healthcare organization, you're likely asking: "Are ParaFlight's services HIPAA-compliant?" This comprehensive analysis will examine ParaFlight's compliance status, security measures, and what healthcare organizations need to know before partnering with them.

Understanding HIPAA Compliance in Healthcare Services

What Makes a Service HIPAA-Compliant?

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) establishes strict guidelines for protecting sensitive patient health information. For any service provider handling Protected Health Information (PHI), compliance requires:

• Administrative Safeguards: Policies, procedures, and designated responsibilities
• Physical Safeguards: Workstation controls, device controls, and facility access controls
• Technical Safeguards: Access control, audit controls, integrity controls, person authentication, and transmission security

The Business Associate Agreement (BAA) Requirement

Any third-party service that handles PHI on behalf of a covered entity must sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). This legally binding contract ensures the service provider will:

• Implement appropriate safeguards to protect PHI
• Report any security incidents or breaches
• Return or destroy PHI when the contract ends
• Allow covered entities to audit compliance measures

Statistics show that 60% of healthcare data breaches involve business associates, making BAA compliance absolutely critical for healthcare organizations.

ParaFlight's Service Overview and Healthcare Applications

What is ParaFlight?

ParaFlight specializes in providing logistics and transportation management solutions, including medical transport services, supply chain management, and emergency response coordination. Their services are increasingly utilized by:

• Hospitals and medical centers
• Emergency medical services (EMS)
• Medical device manufacturers
• Pharmaceutical companies
• Healthcare supply chain operators

Healthcare Data Handling Scenarios

In healthcare contexts, ParaFlight may potentially handle:

• Patient transport information
• Medical supply delivery records
• Emergency response data
• Hospital logistics coordination
• Medical device tracking information

Analyzing ParaFlight's HIPAA Compliance Status

Current Compliance Documentation

Based on available public information and industry standards, here's what we know about ParaFlight's HIPAA compliance approach:

Security Infrastructure:

• Enterprise-grade encryption for data transmission
• Secure access controls and authentication systems
• Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments
• Incident response procedures

Operational Safeguards:

• Employee training on data privacy and security
• Access logging and monitoring systems
• Data backup and recovery protocols
• Physical security measures for facilities and vehicles

BAA Availability and Terms

Healthcare organizations should specifically inquire about:

1. BAA Execution: Whether ParaFlight readily provides Business Associate Agreements
2. Scope of Coverage: Which services are covered under HIPAA compliance
3. Liability Provisions: How responsibility is allocated in case of breaches
4. Audit Rights: Whether healthcare partners can audit ParaFlight's compliance measures

Key Compliance Areas for Healthcare Organizations

1. Data Encryption and Transmission Security

Industry Standard: The Department of Health and Human Services recommends AES-256 encryption for PHI at rest and in transit.

ParaFlight should demonstrate:

• End-to-end encryption for all data transmissions
• Encrypted storage of any healthcare-related information
• Secure API integrations with healthcare systems
• Protected communication channels for sensitive information

2. Access Controls and Authentication

Critical Requirements:

• Multi-factor authentication for system access
• Role-based access controls limiting data visibility
• Regular access reviews and deprovisioning procedures
• Audit trails for all PHI access attempts

3. Incident Response and Breach Notification

HIPAA Timeline: Covered entities must be notified of breaches within 60 days, with patient notification required within 60 days of discovery.

ParaFlight's incident response should include:

• Immediate breach detection and containment
• Forensic analysis and documentation
• Timely notification to healthcare partners
• Remediation and prevention measures

Compliance Verification Steps for Healthcare Organizations

Due Diligence Checklist

Before partnering with ParaFlight, healthcare organizations should:

1. Request Compliance Documentation

• Current HIPAA compliance certifications
• Third-party security audit reports (SOC 2 Type II preferred)
• Incident history and response documentation
• Employee training records and procedures

2. Review Technical Safeguards

• Data encryption standards and implementation
• Network security architecture
• Access control mechanisms
• Audit logging capabilities

3. Evaluate Operational Procedures

• Data handling and processing workflows
• Employee background check procedures
• Physical security measures
• Vendor management and sub-contractor oversight

Red Flags to Watch For

Healthcare organizations should be cautious if ParaFlight:

• Refuses to sign a comprehensive BAA
• Cannot provide detailed security documentation
• Has a history of unresolved security incidents
• Lacks appropriate insurance coverage for data breaches

Industry Best Practices and Recommendations

Selecting HIPAA-Compliant Transportation Partners

Key Selection Criteria:

1. Proven Healthcare Experience: 78% of successful healthcare partnerships involve vendors with demonstrated industry experience
2. Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Minimum $1 million cyber liability insurance recommended
3. Regular Security Assessments: Quarterly or annual third-party security audits
4. Transparent Reporting: Clear incident reporting and resolution procedures

Ongoing Compliance Management

Continuous Monitoring Requirements:

• Regular BAA reviews and updates
• Quarterly compliance assessments
• Annual security audit requirements
• Incident response testing and validation

Cost Implications of HIPAA Compliance

Financial Considerations

Healthcare organizations should budget for:

Compliance Verification Costs:

• Legal review of BAAs: $2,000-$5,000
• Third-party security assessments: $5,000-$15,000
• Ongoing monitoring and auditing: $3,000-$10,000 annually

Risk Mitigation Investments:

• Enhanced insurance coverage
• Additional security measures
• Staff training and awareness programs
• Incident response planning

ROI of Compliance

Statistics demonstrate the value:

• HIPAA-compliant organizations experience 50% fewer data breaches
• Average breach cost reduction of $2.8 million for compliant organizations
• 85% higher patient trust scores for compliant healthcare providers

Future Trends in Healthcare Compliance

Emerging Requirements

The healthcare compliance landscape continues evolving:

Technology Trends:

• AI and machine learning compliance requirements
• IoT device security standards
• Cloud security enhancement mandates
• Blockchain implementation guidelines

Regulatory Updates:

• Enhanced penalty structures for non-compliance
• Expanded breach notification requirements
• Stricter business associate oversight mandates
• International data protection alignment (GDPR integration)

Conclusion and Action Steps

Determining whether ParaFlight's services are HIPAA-compliant requires thorough due diligence and direct engagement with their compliance team. While ParaFlight appears to maintain robust security infrastructure and operational procedures, healthcare organizations must:

1. Request detailed compliance documentation directly from ParaFlight
2. Negotiate comprehensive BAA terms that address specific use cases
3. Conduct regular compliance audits throughout the partnership
4. Maintain incident response protocols for potential security events

The healthcare industry's digital transformation demands partners who prioritize compliance and security. With healthcare data breaches costing an average of $408 per stolen record, investing in HIPAA-compliant service providers isn't just good practice—it's essential business protection.

Before finalizing any partnership with ParaFlight, consult with your healthcare organization's legal and compliance teams to ensure all HIPAA requirements are thoroughly addressed and documented.

References

1. IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report 2023
2. HHS.gov HIPAA Security Rule Guidance
3. Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Security Survey
4. Ponemon Institute Healthcare Data Security Report
5. Department of Health and Human Services Breach Report Database

Private jet travel has become increasingly popular among executives and high-net-worth individuals, with the global business jet market valued at approximately $26.8 billion in 2022 and projected to reach $39.5 billion by 2030. However, one of the most common questions from first-time private jet users is: "How much advance notice do I need to book executive jet travel?" Understanding the minimum notice requirements can mean the difference between a seamless travel experience and last-minute disappointment.

Understanding Executive Jet Booking Notice Periods

The minimum notice required for executive jet travel varies significantly depending on several factors, including aircraft availability, destination, crew scheduling, and seasonal demand. Generally, the industry operates on different notice periods based on the type of booking and service level you require.

Standard Notice Requirements by Aircraft Category

Light Jets (4-8 passengers)

• Minimum notice: 4-6 hours
• Recommended notice: 24-48 hours
• Peak season adjustment: 72+ hours

Mid-Size Jets (6-9 passengers)

• Minimum notice: 6-8 hours
• Recommended notice: 48-72 hours
• Peak season adjustment: 5-7 days

Heavy Jets (8-14 passengers)

• Minimum notice: 8-12 hours
• Recommended notice: 72 hours to 1 week
• Peak season adjustment: 1-2 weeks

Ultra-Long Range Jets (12-19 passengers)

• Minimum notice: 12-24 hours
• Recommended notice: 1-2 weeks
• Peak season adjustment: 2-4 weeks

According to industry data from the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), approximately 60% of private jet flights are booked with less than 24 hours' notice, while only 15% are booked more than a week in advance.

Factors Affecting Minimum Notice Requirements

1. Aircraft Availability

The primary factor determining notice requirements is aircraft availability. During peak travel periods—such as major sporting events, holidays, or conference seasons—aircraft demand can increase by up to 300%, significantly extending minimum notice requirements.

2. Crew Scheduling and Rest Requirements

Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) mandate specific rest periods for flight crews. Part 135 operations require:

• 10 hours of rest before duty periods of 8 hours or less
• 12 hours of rest before duty periods exceeding 8 hours
• Maximum of 14 hours on duty in any 24-hour period

These regulations can extend notice requirements, particularly for complex itineraries or when crews need to be repositioned.

3. International Travel Considerations

International flights require additional lead time for:

• Customs and immigration clearances
• Overflight permits
• Landing permits
• Crew documentation verification
• Aircraft insurance adjustments

For international executive jet travel, minimum notice typically ranges from 24-72 hours, with some destinations requiring up to one week for permit processing.

4. Airport Slot Availability

High-density airports like Teterboro (KTEB), Van Nuys (KVNY), and London Luton often have slot restrictions that can affect availability. Peak-hour slots may require several days' advance booking, even with available aircraft.

Same-Day and Last-Minute Booking Options

Despite standard notice requirements, the private aviation industry has evolved to accommodate urgent travel needs. Approximately 40% of charter operators offer same-day booking services, though these come with certain limitations and premium pricing.

Emergency and AOG (Aircraft on Ground) Services

Many operators maintain emergency response capabilities for:

• Medical emergencies
• Critical business situations
• Aircraft on Ground scenarios
• Weather-related commercial flight disruptions

These services typically operate with 2-4 hours' notice but may cost 150-300% more than standard rates.

On-Demand vs. Guaranteed Availability Programs

On-Demand Charter:

• Minimum 4-6 hours notice
• Subject to availability
• Variable pricing based on demand

Jet Card Programs:

• Typically 4-24 hours guaranteed notice
• Fixed or capped pricing
• Priority access to operator's fleet

Fractional Ownership:

• Often 4-10 hours notice depending on share size
• Guaranteed availability (with blackout periods)
• Consistent service standards

Seasonal Variations in Notice Requirements

Private jet demand fluctuates significantly throughout the year, directly impacting minimum notice requirements:

Peak Season (December-January, July-August):

• Notice requirements increase by 200-400%
• Premium pricing of 50-100% above standard rates
• Limited last-minute availability

Shoulder Season (March-May, September-November):

• Standard notice requirements apply
• Moderate pricing adjustments
• Good availability for short-notice bookings

Off-Peak Season (February, June):

• Reduced notice requirements
• Potential discounting of 10-20%
• Excellent availability

Industry statistics show that 75% of peak-season bookings require at least 48 hours' notice, compared to only 35% during off-peak periods.

Strategic Planning for Executive Travel

Building Flexibility into Travel Plans

Successful executives often employ several strategies to minimize notice requirements:

1. Preferred Operator Relationships: Establishing relationships with 2-3 preferred operators can reduce notice requirements and improve availability.
2. Flexible Scheduling: Building 2-4 hour buffers around critical meetings allows for last-minute aircraft availability.
3. Alternative Airport Options: Considering secondary airports can significantly improve aircraft availability and reduce notice requirements.
4. Backup Commercial Options: Maintaining first-class commercial alternatives for time-sensitive travel.

Technology Solutions

Modern booking platforms have reduced average booking time from 6-8 hours to 2-3 hours through:

• Real-time aircraft availability
• Automated crew scheduling
• Digital permit processing
• Instant quote generation

Companies utilizing these platforms report 45% faster booking times and 30% better aircraft availability.

Cost Implications of Notice Requirements

The relationship between notice period and pricing is significant in executive jet travel:

Same-Day Booking Premium: 150-300% above standard rates
24-48 Hour Booking: 25-50% premium
1 Week+ Advance Booking: Potential 10-15% discount
Peak Season Last-Minute: Up to 400% premium

According to industry analysis, companies that plan executive travel with at least 72 hours' notice save an average of 35% on charter costs annually.

Regional Variations in Notice Requirements

North America

• Domestic flights: 4-24 hours minimum
• High availability of aircraft and crews
• Well-developed infrastructure

Europe

• Intra-European: 6-48 hours minimum
• Slot restrictions at major airports
• Complex regulatory environment requiring additional planning

Asia-Pacific

• Domestic flights: 12-48 hours minimum
• Limited infrastructure in some regions
• Growing fleet availability

Middle East/Africa

• International flights: 24-72 hours minimum
• Permit-intensive regions
• Limited ground support infrastructure

Best Practices for Executive Travel Planning

1. Establish Clear Travel Policies

Companies should develop comprehensive travel policies addressing:

• Minimum advance booking requirements
• Approved operators and aircraft types
• Budget parameters and approval processes
• Emergency travel procedures

2. Leverage Technology

Modern executive travel management includes:

• Mobile booking applications
• Real-time flight tracking
• Automated expense reporting
• Integration with corporate travel policies

3. Build Strategic Partnerships

Long-term relationships with charter operators provide:

• Priority booking access
• Consistent pricing
• Dedicated account management
• Guaranteed availability windows

4. Consider Hybrid Solutions

Many companies employ multiple solutions:

• Jet cards for routine travel (60-70% of trips)
• On-demand charter for unique requirements (20-30% of trips)
• Fractional shares for high-frequency travelers (10-15% of trips)

Future Trends in Executive Jet Booking

The private aviation industry continues evolving to meet executive travel demands:

Digital Transformation

• AI-powered availability prediction
• Blockchain-based permit processing
• Automated crew scheduling optimization

Sustainability Focus

• Carbon offset integration
• Sustainable aviation fuel options
• Electric aircraft development for short-haul flights

Accessibility Improvements

• Expanded booking platforms
• Simplified pricing structures
• Enhanced transparency

Industry experts predict that average booking times will decrease to under 2 hours by 2025, with 80% of bookings processed digitally.

Conclusion

The minimum notice required for executive jet travel depends on numerous factors, from aircraft category and seasonal demand to destination requirements and crew availability. While industry standards suggest 4-24 hours minimum notice depending on aircraft type, successful executive travel planning requires understanding these variables and building appropriate flexibility into travel schedules.

Smart executives and their travel managers recognize that while same-day booking is possible, optimal pricing and aircraft selection typically require 48-72 hours' advance planning. By establishing relationships with preferred operators, leveraging technology solutions, and understanding seasonal patterns, business leaders can ensure reliable access to private aviation while managing costs effectively.

The private jet industry's continued evolution toward greater accessibility and shorter booking windows makes executive jet travel an increasingly viable option for time-sensitive business travel. However, the fundamental principle remains: the more advance notice you can provide, the better your options in terms of aircraft selection, pricing, and scheduling flexibility.

As the industry continues to grow—with over 22,000 business aircraft currently operating worldwide—understanding notice requirements becomes increasingly important for executives seeking to maximize the value and reliability of private aviation services.

References

1. National Business Aviation Association (NBAA)
2. Federal Aviation Administration - Part 135 Operating Requirements
3. Business Jet Traveler Magazine Industry Reports
4. Aviation Week Intelligence Network Market Analysis
5. International Business Aviation Council (IBAC)