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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Understanding Airspace Restrictions

Introduction

Understanding the classification and specifics of Prohibited, Restricted, and Danger areas is essential for safe navigation and compliance with aviation regulations. This section will guide you through determining data related to these areas, focusing on using the En Route Supplement Australia (ERSA) as a primary resource.

Airspace Categories

Prohibited Areas (P)

  • Definition: No aircraft are permitted to enter Prohibited Areas at any time.
  • Purpose: These areas are established mainly for national security or significant governmental installations.
  • Regulatory Authority: Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia designates these areas.

Restricted Areas (R)

  • Definition: Entry into Restricted Areas requires adhering to specific conditions or obtaining clearance.
  • Purpose: They are intended to protect safety or security under controlled circumstances.
  • Clearance Levels:
    • RA1: Clearance by Air Traffic Control (ATC) is anticipated.
    • RA2: Entry is discouraged; clearance is not guaranteed.
    • RA3: Flight planning is not permitted; no ATC clearance is possible.
  • Regulatory Authority: Declared by CASA with specified conditions.
  • Example: Details such as activation times can be found within ERSA sections.

Danger Areas (D)

  • Definition: Designated due to potential hazards; pilots exercise caution.
  • Purpose: Warns of activities posing a potential risk but does not prohibit entry.
  • Operational Consideration: Does not require explicit ATC clearance.

Determining Active Times for Restricted Areas Using ERSA

Utilizing the ERSA

The En Route Supplement Australia (ERSA) is a critical document for determining the status and active times of restricted areas.

  1. ERSA PRD Section: This section lists all Prohibited, Restricted, and Danger areas in Australia with corresponding active times.

    • Example: The active times for an area like Sydney Intl R405B are detailed in the PRD section.

  2. ERSA Symbols and Abbreviations:

    • HJ: Represents “Sunrise to Sunset” activity.
    • HH24: Indicates the area is active 24 hours.

Accessing Updated Information

  • NOTAMs: Also aid in providing current updates on active periods for Restricted Areas.
  • DAH and VNCs: Complement ERSA by offering maps and topographical information relevant to active times.

Conclusion

Efficient navigation requires understanding and integrating information from the ERSA, along with supplementary tools like the Designated Airspace Handbook (DAH) and NOTAMs for accurate and current airspace status. This integration ensures compliance and safety in navigating Australia’s airspace efficiently.

Sources