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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Operating Procedures in Various Airspaces

Applying Permitted Tracking Tolerances for VFR Aircraft

When operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), pilots must ensure adherence to tracking tolerances to avoid unintentionally entering controlled airspace. To understand tracking tolerances, it is crucial to consult specific regulations in the Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR) as well as guidance from CASA Visual Flight Rules Guide - CASA.

General Guidelines

  • Always plan and navigate to remain clear of controlled airspace unless proper clearance has been obtained.
  • Continually reference current sectional charts, NOTAMs, and airspace diagrams during flight planning.
  • Execute visual navigation with periodic checks against known ground references to maintain VFR compliance.

Operating from or into Licensed Aerodromes and CTAF

Licensed Aerodromes

  • Requirements: Ensure compliance with aerodrome-specific operational and safety protocols.
  • Procedures: Verify radio frequencies and local procedures through AIP ERSA and NOTAMs.

CTAF (Common Traffic Advisory Frequency)

  • Operations: Primarily used at non-controlled aerodromes.
  • Radio Communications: Tune to the designated CTAF frequency well in advance; broadcast positions and intentions clearly.
  • Entering and Exiting: Maintain vigilance and follow standard circuit patterns or any local procedures advised on VTC and ERSA Radio Procedures in Non-Controlled Airspace - CASA.

Circuit Departure and Arrival Procedures

Circuit Operations at Non-Controlled Aerodromes

  • Circuit Height and Joining: Follow standard procedures for entry at recommended height; turns should be to the left unless otherwise noted in ERSA.
  • Departure: Extend a leg or climb while ensuring separation from other aircraft before departing the circuit.
  • Speed and Height Limits:
    • High-performance: 1,500 ft above aerodrome level (AAL).
    • Medium-performance: 1,000 ft AAL.
    • Low-performance: 500 ft AAL.

Key References

Operating in Different Classes of Airspace

Class A Airspace

  • Type: Exclusively for IFR.
  • VFR Operations: Not permitted.

Class C Airspace

  • Clearance and Communication: Mandatory clearance and two-way communication required.
  • Separation: Provided for both IFR and VFR aircraft.

Class D Airspace

  • VFR Requirements: Maintain specified visibility and cloud clearance.
  • Procedures: Clearance needed, with separation provided for IFR flights Classes of Airspace - GoFly Online.

Class E Airspace

  • Use: Controlled, with traffic information services available.
  • Clearance: Only the IFR aircraft are required to obtain clearance.

Class G Airspace

  • Characteristics: Uncontrolled airspace.
  • VFR Operations: Flexible, with an emphasis on see-and-avoid and remaining within visual meteorological conditions.

Conclusion

Understanding and adhering to VFR tracking tolerances, circuit departure and arrival procedures, and class-specific airspace operations are critical skills for PPL holders. Continuous reference to regulatory guides and communication with relevant control entities will help ensure compliance and safety during flight operations. For further details, pilots should review current legislation and published advisory materials.