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GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
OFFICE OF DIRECTOR GENERAL OF CIVIL AVIATION
TECHNICAL CENTRE, OPP SAFDARJANG AIRPORT, NEW DELHI
CIVIL AVIATION REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 9 – AIR SPACE AND AIR NAVIGATION
SERVICES STANDARDS
SERIES 'E', PART I
ISSUE II, 8th JANUARY 2010 EFFECTIVE: FORTHWITH
F. No. AV 27085/1/2012-ANS
Subject: Air Traffic Services.
INTRODUCTION
Article 28 (Air navigation facilities and standard systems) of the Convention on
International Civil Aviation requires each contracting State to provide, in its
territory, airports, radio services, meteorological services and other air
navigation facilities to facilitate international air navigation, in accordance with
the standards and practices recommended or established from time to time,
pursuant to this Convention. Under Article 37 (Adoption of international
standards and Procedures) of the Convention, each contracting State
undertakes to collaborate in securing the highest practicable degree of
uniformity in regulations, standards, procedures, and organization in relation
to aircraft, personnel, airways and auxiliary services in all matters in which
such uniformity will facilitate and improve air navigation. To this end the
International Civil Aviation Organization adopts and amends from time to time,
as may be necessary, international standards and recommended practices
and procedures dealing with air traffic control practices.
In above respect, ICAO Annex 11 provides the Standards pertaining to the Air
Traffic Services which are required to be adopted by the Contracting State.
This CAR is issued under the provisions of Rule 29C and Rule 133A of the
Aircraft Rules, 1937 for the navigation of aircraft flying in or over India or of
aircraft registered in India.
This CAR is issued in supersession of CAR Section 4 Series ‘E’ Part II dated
th
8 June 2006.
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1.
DEFINITIONS
Note 1 —Throughout the text of this document the term “service” is used as an
abstract noun to designate functions, or service rendered; the term “unit” is used
to designate a collective body performing a service.
Note 2. — The designation (RR) in these definitions indicates a definition which
has been extracted from the Radio Regulations of the International
Telecommunication Union (ITU) (see Handbook on Radio Frequency Spectrum
Requirements for Civil Aviation including statement of approved ICAO policies
(Doc 9718)).
When the following terms are used in this CAR they have the following
meanings:
Accepting unit. Air traffic control unit next to take control of an aircraft.
Accident. An occurrence associated with the operation of an aircraft
which, in the case of a manned aircraft, takes place between the time any
person boards the aircraft with the intention of flight until such time as all
such persons have disembarked, or in the case of an unmanned aircraft,
takes place between the time the aircraft is ready to move with the purpose
of flight until such time it comes to rest at the end of the flight and the
primary propulsion system is shut down, in which:
a) a person is fatally or seriously injured as a result of:
— being in the aircraft, or
— direct contact with any part of the aircraft, including parts which
have become detached from the aircraft, or
— direct exposure to jet blast,
except when the injuries are from natural causes, self-inflicted or inflicted
by other persons, or when the injuries are to stowaways hiding outside the
areas normally available to the passengers and crew; or
b) the aircraft sustains damage or structural failure which:
— adversely affects the structural strength, performance or flight
characteristics of the aircraft, and
— would normally require major repair or replacement of the
affected component,
except for engine failure or damage, when the damage is limited to a single
engine,( including its cowlings or accessories); to propellers, wing tips,
antennas, probes, vanes, tires, brakes, wheels, fairings, panels, landing gear
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doors, windscreens, the aircraft skin (such as, small dents or puncture holes), or
for minor damages to main rotor blades, tail rotor blades, landing gear, and those
resulting from hail or bird strike (including holes in the radome); or
c) the aircraft is missing or is completely inaccessible.
Note 1 —For statistical uniformity only, an injury resulting in death within thirty
days of the date of the accident is classified, by ICAO, as a fatal injury.
Note 2. — An aircraft is considered to be missing when the official search has
been terminated and the wreckage has not been located.
Note 3—The type of unmanned aircraft system to be investigated is addressed in
Annex 13, 5.1.
Note 4.— Guidance for the determination of aircraft damage can be found in Annex 13,
Attachment E.
ADS-C agreement. A reporting plan which establishes the conditions of ADS-
C data reporting (i.e. data required by the air traffic services unit and frequency
of ADS-C reports which have to be agreed to prior to using ADS-C in the
provision of air traffic services).
Note. — The terms of the agreement will be exchanged between the ground system
and the aircraft by means of a contract, or a series of contracts.
Advisory airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions, or designated route,
within which air traffic advisory service is available.
Advisory route. A designated route along which air traffic advisory service is
available.
Aerodrome. A defined area on land or water (including any buildings,
installations and equipment) intended to be used either wholly or in part for the
arrival, departure and surface movement of aircraft.
Aerodrome control service. Air traffic control service for aerodrome traffic.
Aerodrome control tower. A unit established to provide air traffic control
service to aerodrome traffic.
Aerodrome traffic. All traffic on the manoeuvring area of an aerodrome and all
aircraft flying in the vicinity of an aerodrome.
Note. — An aircraft is in the vicinity of an aerodrome when it is in, entering or leaving an
aerodrome traffic circuit.
Aeronautical fixed service (AFS). A telecommunication service between
specified fixed points provided primarily for the safety of air navigation and for
the regular, efficient and economical operation of air services.
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Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). A publication issued by or
with the authority of a State and containing aeronautical information of a
lasting character essential to air navigation.
Aeronautical mobile service (RR S1.32). A mobile service between
aeronautical stations and aircraft stations, or between aircraft stations, in
which survival craft stations may participate; emergency position-
indicating radio beacon stations may also participate in this service on
designated distress and emergency frequencies.
Aeronautical telecommunication station. A station in the aeronautical
telecommunication service.
Airborne collision avoidance system (ACAS). An aircraft system based
on secondary surveillance radar (SSR) transponder signals which
operates independently of ground-based equipment to provide advice to
the pilot on potential conflicting aircraft that are equipped with SSR
transponders.
Aircraft. Any machine that can derive support in the atmosphere from the
reactions of the air other than the reactions of the air against the earth’s
surface.
Air-ground communication. Two-way communication between aircraft
and stations or locations on the surface of the earth.
AIRMET information. Information issued by a meteorological watch office
concerning the occurrence or expected occurrence of specified en-route
weather phenomena which may affect the safety of low-level aircraft
operations and which was not already included in the forecast issued for
low-level flights in the flight information region concerned or sub-area
thereof.
Air-taxiing. Movement of a helicopter/VTOL above the surface of an
aerodrome, normally in ground effect and at a ground speed normally less
than 37 km/h (20 kt).
Note. — The actual height may vary, and some helicopters may require air-taxiing
above 8 m (25 ft) AGL to reduce ground effect turbulence or provide clearance
for cargo sling loads.
Air traffic. All aircraft in flight or operating on the manoeuvring area of an
aerodrome.
Air traffic advisory service. A service provided within advisory airspace
to ensure separation, in so far as practical, between aircraft which are
operating on IFR flight plans.
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Air traffic control clearance. Authorization for an aircraft to proceed
under conditions specified by an air traffic control unit.
Note 1. — For convenience, the term “air traffic control clearance” is frequently
abbreviated to “clearance” when used in appropriate contexts.
Note 2. — The abbreviated term “clearance” may be prefixed by the words “taxi”,
“take-off”, “departure”, “en route”, “approach” or “landing” to indicate the particular
portion of flight to which the air traffic control clearance relates.
Air traffic control service. A service provided for the purpose of:
a) preventing collisions:
1) between aircraft, and
2) on the maneuvering area between aircraft and obstructions; and
b) expediting and maintaining an orderly flow of air traffic.
Air traffic control unit. A generic term meaning variously, area control
center, approach control unit or aerodrome control tower.
Air traffic controller schedule. A plan for allocating air traffic controller
duty periods and non-duty periods over a period of time, otherwise referred
to as a roster.
Air traffic flow management (ATFM). A service established with the
objective of contributing to a safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic
by ensuring that ATC capacity is utilized to the maximum extent possible
and that the traffic volume is compatible with the capacities declared by
the appropriate ATS authority.
Air traffic service. A generic term meaning variously, flight information
service, alerting service, air traffic advisory service, air traffic control
service (area control service, approach control service or aerodrome
control service).
Air traffic services airspaces. Airspaces of defined dimensions,
alphabetically designated, within which specific types of flights may
operate and for which air traffic services and rules of operation are
specified.
Note.— ATS airspaces are classified as Class A to G as described in para 2.6.
Air traffic services reporting office. A unit established for the purpose
of receiving reports concerning air traffic services and flight plans
submitted before departure.
Note. — An air traffic services reporting office may be established as a separate
unit or combined with an existing unit, such as another air traffic services unit, or
a unit of the aeronautical information service.
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Air traffic services unit. A generic term meaning variously, air traffic
control unit, flight information centre or air traffic services reporting office.
Airway. A control area or portion thereof established in the form of a
corridor.
ALERFA. The code word used to designate an alert phase.
Alerting service. A service provided to notify appropriate organizations
regarding aircraft in need of search and rescue aid, and assist such
organizations as required.
Alert phase. A situation wherein apprehension exists as to the safety of
an aircraft and its occupants.
Alternate aerodrome. An aerodrome to which an aircraft may proceed
when it becomes either impossible or inadvisable to proceed to or to land
at the aerodrome of intended landing where the necessary services and
facilities are available, where aircraft performance requirements can be
met and which is operational at the expected time of use. Alternate
aerodromes include the following:
Take-off alternate. An alternate aerodrome at which an aircraft would be
able to land should this become necessary shortly after take-off and it is
not possible to use the aerodrome of departure.
En-route alternate. An alternate aerodrome at which an aircraft would be
able to land in the event that a diversion becomes necessary while en-
route.
Destination alternate. An alternate aerodrome at which an aircraft would
be able to land should it become either impossible or inadvisable to land
at the aerodrome of intended landing.
Note. — The aerodrome from which a flight departs may also be an en- route or
a destination alternate aerodrome for that flight.
Altitude. The vertical distance of a level, a point or an object considered
as a point, measured from mean sea level.
Approach control service. Air traffic control service for arriving or
departing controlled flights.
Approach control unit. A unit established to provide air traffic control
service to controlled flights arriving at, or departing from, one or more
aerodromes.
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Appropriate ATS authority. The relevant authority designated by the
State responsible for providing air traffic services in the airspace
concerned.
Apron. A defined area, on a land aerodrome, intended to accommodate
aircraft for purposes of loading or unloading passengers, mail or cargo,
fuelling, parking or maintenance.
Apron management service. A service provided to regulate the activities
and the movement of aircraft and vehicles on an apron.
Area control centre. A unit established to provide air traffic control service
to controlled flights in control areas under its jurisdiction.
Area control service. Air traffic control service for controlled flights in
control areas.
Area navigation (RNAV). A method of navigation which permits aircraft
operation on any desired flight path within the coverage of ground- or
space-based navigation aids or within the limits of the capability of self-
contained aids, or a combination of these.
Note. — Area navigation includes performance-based navigation as well as other
operations that do not meet the definition of performance-based navigation.
Area navigation route. An ATS route established for the use of aircraft
capable of employing area navigation.
ATS route. A specified route designed for channelling the flow of traffic as
necessary for the provision of air traffic services.
Note 1. — The term “ATS route” is used to mean variously, airway, advisory route,
controlled or uncontrolled route, arrival or departure route, etc.
Note 2.— An ATS route is defined by route specifications which include an ATS
route designator, the track to or from significant points (waypoints), distance
between significant points, reporting requirements and, as determined by the
appropriate ATS authority, the lowest safe altitude.
Automatic dependent surveillance — broadcast (ADS-B). A means by
which aircraft, aerodrome vehicles and other objects can automatically
transmit and/or receive data such as identification, position and additional
data, as appropriate, in a broadcast mode via a data link.
Automatic dependent surveillance — contract (ADS-C). A means by
which the terms of an ADS-C agreement will be exchanged between the
ground system and the aircraft, via a data link, specifying under what
conditions ADS-C reports would be initiated, and what data would be
contained in the reports.
Note. — The abbreviated term “ADS contract” is commonly used to refer to ADS
event contract, ADS demand contract, ADS periodic contract or an emergency
mode.
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Automatic terminal information service (ATIS). The automatic
provision of current, routine information to arriving and departing aircraft
throughout 24 hours or a specified portion thereof:
Data link-automatic terminal information service (D-ATIS).The provision of
ATIS via data link.
Voice-automatic terminal information service (Voice-ATIS). The provision
of ATIS by means of continuous and repetitive voice broadcasts.
Base turn. A turn executed by the aircraft during the initial approach
between the end of the outbound track and the beginning of the
intermediate or final approach track. The tracks are not reciprocal.
Note. — Base turns may be designated as being made either in level flight or while
descending, according to the circumstances of each individual procedure.
Calendar. Discrete temporal reference system that provides the basis for
defining temporal position to a resolution of one day (ISO 19108*).
Change-over point. The point at which an aircraft navigating on an ATS
route segment defined by reference to very high frequency omnidirectional
radio ranges is expected to transfer its primary navigational reference from
the facility behind the aircraft to the next facility ahead of the aircraft.
Note.— Change-over points are established to provide the optimum balance in
respect of signal strength and quality between facilities at all levels to be used
and to ensure a common source of azimuth guidance for all aircraft operating
along the same portion of a route segment.
Clearance limit. The point to which an aircraft is granted an air traffic
control clearance.
Conference communications. Communication facilities whereby direct
speech conversation may be conducted between three or more locations
simultaneously.
Control area. A controlled airspace extending upwards from a specified
limit above the earth.
Controlled aerodrome. An aerodrome at which air traffic control service
is provided to aerodrome traffic.
Note. — The term “controlled aerodrome” indicates that air traffic control service
is provided to aerodrome traffic but does not necessarily imply that a control zone
exists.
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Controlled airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions within which air
traffic control service is provided in accordance with the airspace
classification.
Note. — Controlled airspace is a generic term which covers ATS airspace Classes
A, B, C, D and E as described in 2.6.
Controlled flight. Any flight which is subject to an air traffic control
clearance.
Controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC). A means of
communication between controller and pilot, using data link for ATC
communications.
Control zone. A controlled airspace extending upwards from the surface
of the earth to a specified upper limit.
Cruising level. A level maintained during a significant portion of a flight.
Cyclic redundancy check (CRC). A mathematical algorithm applied to
the digital expression of data that provides a level of assurance against
loss or alteration of data.
Danger area. An airspace of defined dimensions within which activities
dangerous to the flight of aircraft may exist at specified times.
Data accuracy. A degree of conformance between the estimated or
measured value and the true value.
Data integrity (assurance level). A degree of assurance that an
aeronautical data and its value has not been lost nor altered since the
origination or authorized amendment.
Data link communications. A form of communication intended for the
exchange of messages via a data link.
Data quality. A degree or level of confidence that the data provided meets
the requirements of the data user in terms of accuracy, resolution and
integrity (or equivalent assurance level), traceability, timeliness,
completeness and format.
Datum. Any quantity or set of quantities that may serve as a reference or
basis for the calculation of other quantities (ISO 19104*).
* ISO Standard 19104, Geographic information — Terminology
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Declared capacity. A measure of the ability of the ATC system or any of
its subsystems or operating positions to provide service to aircraft during
normal activities. It is expressed as the number of aircraft entering a
specified portion of airspace in a given period of time, taking due account
of weather, ATC unit configuration, staff and equipment avail-able, and any
other factors that may affect the workload of the controller responsible for
the airspace.
DETRESFA. The code word used to designate a distress phase.
Distress phase. A situation wherein there is reasonable certainty that an
aircraft and its occupants are threatened by grave and imminent danger
or require immediate assistance.
Downstream clearance. A clearance issued to an aircraft by an air traffic
control unit that is not the current controlling authority of that aircraft.
Emergency phase. A generic term meaning, as the case may be,
uncertainty phase, alert phase or distress phase.
Fatigue. A physiological state of reduced mental or physical performance
capability resulting from sleep loss, extended wakefulness, circadian
phase, and/or workload (mental and/or physical activity) that can impair a
person’s alertness and ability to perform safety-related operational duties.
Fatigue risk management system (FRMS). A data-driven means of
continuously monitoring and managing fatigue-related safety risks, based
upon scientific principles, knowledge and operational experience that aims
to ensure relevant personnel are performing at adequate levels of
alertness.
Final approach. That part of an instrument approach procedure which
commences at the specified final approach fix or point, or where such a fix
or point is not specified,
a) at the end of the last procedure turn, base turn or inbound turn of a
racetrack procedure, if specified; or
b) at the point of interception of the last track specified in the approach
procedure; and
ends at a point in the vicinity of an aerodrome from which:
1) a landing can be made; or
2) a missed approach procedure is initiated.
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Flight crew member. A licensed crew member charged with duties
essential to the operation of an aircraft during a flight duty period.
Flight information centre. A unit established to provide flight information
service and alerting service.
Flight information region. An airspace of defined dimensions within
which flight information service and alerting service are provided.
Flight information service. A service provided for the purpose of giving
advice and information useful for the safe and efficient conduct of flights.
Flight level. A surface of constant atmospheric pressure which is related
to a specific pressure datum, 1 013.2 hectopascals (hPa), and is separated
from other such surfaces by specific pressure intervals.
Note 1. — A pressure type altimeter calibrated in accordance with the Standard
Atmosphere:
a) when set to a QNH altimeter setting, will indicate altitude;
b) when set to a QFE altimeter setting, will indicate height above the QFE
reference datum;
c) when set to a pressure of 1 013.2 hPa, may be used to indicate flight levels.
Note 2. — The terms “height” and “altitude”, used in Note 1 above, indicate
altimetric rather than geometric heights and altitudes.
Flight plan. Specified information provided to air traffic services units,
relative to an intended flight or portion of a flight of an aircraft.
Note. — Specifications for flight plans are contained in Annex 2. When the
expression “flight plan form” is used it denotes the model flight plan form at
Appendix 2 to the PANS-ATM.
Forecast. A statement of expected meteorological conditions for a
specified time or period, and for a specified area or portion of airspace.
Geodetic datum. A minimum set of parameters required to define location
and orientation of the local reference system with respect to the global
reference system/frame.
Gregorian calendar. Calendar in general use; first introduced in 1582 to
define a year that more closely approximates the tropical year than the
Julian calendar (ISO 19108*).
Note. — In the Gregorian calendar, common years have 365 days and leap years
366 days divided into twelve sequential months.
* ISO Standard 19108, Geographic information — Temporal schema
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Height. The vertical distance of a level, a point or an object considered as
a point, measured from a specified datum.
Human Factors principles. Principles which apply to aeronautical
design, certification, training, operations and maintenance and which seek
safe interface between the human and other system components by
proper consideration to human performance.
Human performance. Human capabilities and limitations which have an
impact on the safety and efficiency of aeronautical operations.
IFR. The symbol used to designate the instrument flight rules.
IFR flight. A flight conducted in accordance with the instrument flight rules.
IMC. The symbol used to designate instrument meteorological conditions.
INCERFA. The code word used to designate an uncertainty phase.
Incident. An occurrence, other than an accident, associated with the
operation of an aircraft which affects or could affect the safety of operation.
Note. — The types of incidents which are of main interest to the International Civil
Aviation Organization for accident prevention studies are listed in the Annex 13,
Attachment C.
Instrument flight procedure design service. A service established for
the design, documentation, validation, maintenance and periodic review of
instrument flight procedures necessary for the safety, regularity and
efficiency of air navigation.
Instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). Meteorological conditions
expressed in terms of visibility, distance from cloud, and ceiling, less than
the minima specified for visual meteorological conditions.
Note. — The specified minima for visual meteorological conditions are contained
in Annex 2.
Integrity classification (aeronautical data).Classification based upon
the potential risk resulting from the use of corrupted data. Aeronautical
data is classified as:
a) routine data: there is a very low probability when using corrupted routine
data that the continued safe flight and landing of an aircraft would be
severely at risk with the potential for catastrophe;
b) essential data: there is a low probability when using corrupted essential
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data that the continued safe flight and landing of an aircraft would be
severely at risk with the potential for catastrophe; and
c) critical data: there is a high probability when using corrupted critical data
that the continued safe flight and landing of an aircraft would be severely
at risk with the potential for catastrophe.
International NOTAM office. An office designated by a State for the
exchange of NOTAM internationally.
Level. A generic term relating to the vertical position of an aircraft in flight
and meaning variously, height, altitude or flight level.
Manoeuvring area. That part of an aerodrome to be used for the take-off,
landing and taxiing of aircraft, excluding aprons.
Meteorological office. An office designated to provide meteorological
service for international air navigation.
Movement area. That part of an aerodrome to be used for the take-off,
landing and taxiing of aircraft, consisting of the manoeuvring area and the
apron(s).
Navigation specification. A set of aircraft and flight crew requirements
needed to support performance-based navigation operations within a
defined airspace. There are two kinds of navigation specifications:
Required navigation performance (RNP) specification. A navigation
specification based on area navigation that includes the
requirement for performance monitoring and alerting, designated by
the prefix RNP, e.g. RNP 4, RNP APCH.
Area navigation (RNAV) specification. A navigation specification
based on area navigation that does not include the requirement for
performance monitoring and alerting, designated by the prefix
RNAV, e.g. RNAV 5, RNAV 1.
Note 1. — The Performance-based Navigation (PBN) Manual (Doc 9613),
Volume II contains detailed guidance on navigation specifications.
Note 2.— The term RNP as previously defined as “a statement of the
navigation performance, necessary for operation within a defined
airspace”, has been removed from this CAR as the concept of RNP has
been overtaken by the concept of PBN. The term RNP in the CAR is now
solely used in context of navigation specifications that require
performance monitoring and alerting.
e.g. RNP 4 refers to the aircraft and operating requirements including a
4 NM lateral performance with on board performance monitoring and
alerting that are detailed in the PBN Manual (Doc 9613).
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NOTAM. A notice distributed by means of telecommunication containing
information concerning the establishment, condition or change in any
aeronautical facility, service, procedure or hazard, the timely knowledge of
which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations.
Obstacle. All fixed (whether temporary or permanent) and mobile objects,
or parts thereof, that :
a) are located on an area intended for the surface movement of aircraft; or
b) extend above a defined surface intended to protect aircraft in flight; or
c) stand outside those defined surfaces and that have been assessed as
being a hazard to air navigation.
Operator. A person, organization or enterprise engaged in or offering to
engage in an aircraft operation.
Performance–based communication (PBC). Communication based on
performance specifications applied to the provision of air traffic services.
Note.— An RCP specification includes communication performance
requirements that are allocated to system components in terms of the
communication to be provide and associated transaction time, continuity,
availability, integrity, safety and functionality needed for the proposed operation
in the context of a particular airspace concept.
Performance-based navigation (PBN). Area navigation based on
performance requirements for aircraft operating along an ATS route, on an
instrument approach procedure or in a designated airspace.
Note.— Performance requirements are expressed in navigation specifications
(RNAV specifications, RNP specification) in terms of accuracy, integrity,
continuity, availability and functionality needed for the proposed operation in the
context of a particular airspace concept.
Performance–based surveillance (PBS). Surveillance based on
performance specifications applied to the provision of air traffic services.
Note.— An RSP specification includes surveillance performance requirements
that are allocated to system components in terms of the surveillance to be
provided and associated data delivery time, continuity, availability, integrity,
accuracy of the surveillance data, safety and functionality needed for the
proposed operation in the context of a particular airspace concept.
Pilot-in-command.The pilot designated by the operator,or in the case of
general aviation , the owner, as being in command and charged with the
safe conduct of a flight.
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Printed communications. Communications which automatically provide
a permanent printed record at each terminal of a circuit of all messages
which pass over such circuit.
Prohibited area. An airspace of defined dimensions, above the land areas
or territorial waters of a State, within which the flight of aircraft is prohibited
Radio navigation service. A service providing guidance information or
position data for the efficient and safe operation of aircraft supported by
one or more radio navigation aids.
Radiotelephony. A form of radio communication primarily intended for the
exchange of information in the form of speech.
Reporting point. A specified geographical location in relation to which the
position of an aircraft can be reported.
Required communication performance (RCP) specification. A set of
requirements for air traffic service provision and associated ground
equipment, aircraft capability, and operations needed to support
performance-based communication.
Required surveillance performance (RSP) specification. A set of
requirements for air traffic service provision and associated ground
equipment, aircraft capability, and operations needed to support
performance-based surveillance.
Rescue coordination centre. A unit responsible for promoting efficient
organization of search and rescue services and for coordinating the
conduct of search and rescue operations within a search and rescue
region.
Restricted area. An airspace of defined dimensions, above the land areas
or territorial waters of a State, within which the flight of aircraft is restricted
in accordance with certain specified conditions
Runway. A defined rectangular area on a land aerodrome prepared for
the landing and take-off of aircraft.
Runway visual range (RVR). The range over which the pilot of an aircraft
on the centre line of a runway can see the runway surface markings or the
lights delineating the runway or identifying its centre line.
Safety management system (SMS).A systematic approach to managing
safety, including the necessary organizational structures, accountabilities,
policies and procedures.
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SIGMET information. Information issued by a meteorological watch office
concerning the occurrence or expected occurrence of specified en-route
weather and other phenomena in the atmosphere that may affect the
safety of aircraft operations.
Significant point. A specified geographical location used in defining an
ATS route or the flight path of an aircraft and for other navigation and ATS
purposes.
Note. — There are three categories of significant points: ground-based navigation
aid, intersection and waypoint. In the context of this definition, intersection is a
significant point expressed as radials, bearings and/or distances from ground-
based navigation aids.
Special VFR flight. A VFR flight cleared by air traffic control to operate
within a control zone in meteorological conditions below VMC.
Station declination. An alignment variation between the zero degree
radial of a VOR and true north, determined at the time the VOR station is
calibrated.
Taxiing. Movement of an aircraft on the surface of an aerodrome under
its own power, excluding take-off and landing.
Terminal control area. A control area normally established at the
confluence of ATS routes in the vicinity of one or more major aerodromes.
Track. The projection on the earth’s surface of the path of an aircraft, the
direction of which path at any point is usually expressed in degrees from
North (true, magnetic or grid).
Traffic avoidance advice. Advice provided by an air traffic services unit
specifying manoeuvres to assist a pilot to avoid a collision.
Traffic information. Information issued by an air traffic services unit to
alert a pilot to other known or observed air traffic which may be in proximity
to the position or intended route of flight and to help the pilot avoid a
collision.
Transfer of control point. A defined point located along the flight path of
an aircraft, at which the responsibility for providing air traffic control service
to the aircraft is transferred from one control unit or control position to the
next.
Transferring unit. Air traffic control unit in the process of transferring the
responsibility for providing air traffic control service to an aircraft to the next
air traffic control unit along the route of flight.
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Uncertainty phase. A situation wherein uncertainty exists as to the safety
of an aircraft and its occupants.
VFR. The symbol used to designate the visual flight rules.
VFR flight. A flight conducted in accordance with the visual flight rules.
Visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Meteorological conditions
expressed in terms of visibility, distance from cloud, and ceiling, equal to
or better than specified minima.
Note. — The specified minima are contained in Annex 2.
VMC. The symbol used to designate visual meteorological conditions.
Waypoint. A specified geographical location used to define an area
navigation route or the flight path of an aircraft employing area navigation.
Waypoints are identified as either:
Fly-by waypoint. A waypoint which requires turn anticipation to allow
tangential interception of the next segment of a route or procedure, or
Flyover waypoint. A waypoint at which a turn is initiated in order to join the
next segment of a route or procedure.
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2. GENERAL
2.1 Establishment of authority
2.1.1 Air Traffic Services shall be provided:
— over entire airspace over Indian Territory including territorial water
except the special use airspace,
— the airspace delegated to India by another State and
— the airspace over high seas for which the responsibility has been
delegated by ICAO as per Regional Air Navigation Agreement.
Such Air Traffic Services shall be established and provided in accordance
with the provisions of this CAR.
Note. — The delegation of such a responsibility of providing air traffic services
would be without derogation of the national sovereignty of delegating State. The
providing State’s responsibility would be limited to technical and operational
considerations only and would not extend beyond those pertaining to the safety
and expedition of aircraft using the concerned airspace. The delegating State
would not withdraw or modify the facilities and services without prior consultation
with the providing State. Such an agreement may be terminated at any time by
the both the delegating and the providing States.
2.1.2 Air Traffic Services, over those portions of the airspace over high seas or
in airspace of undetermined sovereignty, shall be provided on the basis of
regional air navigation agreements. India on accepting the responsibility
to provide air traffic services in such portions of airspace shall arrange for
the services to be established and provided in accordance with the
provisions of this CAR.
Note 1. — The phrase “regional air navigation agreements” refers to the
agreements approved by the Council of ICAO normally on the advice of Regional
Air Navigation Meetings.
2.1.3 Airports Authority of India is the statutory authority responsible for
providing Air Traffic Services in India. No other agency shall provide an Air
Traffic Service unless approved by the DGCA.
2.1.3.1 Air Navigation Service Provider responsible for provision of Air Traffic
Services shall develop policies and procedures to enable recruitment
and retention of appropriately qualified and experienced ATS staff.
2.1.3.2 Air Navigation Service Provider responsible for provision of Air Traffic
Services shall develop and implement training programme for its ATS
staff.
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2.1.3.3 Air Navigation Service Provider responsible for provision of Air Traffic
Services shall develop policies and procedures for determining the
capacity of the ATS system, including the number of staff required to
ensure the provision of an adequate ATS system.
2.1.4 The air traffic service provider shall publish detail of each ATS that is
provided in particular airspace or for a particular aerodrome, including the
hours during which the service is available. This information shall be
published in AIP India.
2.2 Objectives of the air traffic services
The objectives of the air traffic services shall be to:
a) prevent collisions between aircraft;
b) prevent collisions between aircraft on the manoeuvring area and
obstructions on that area;
c) expedite and maintain an orderly flow of air traffic;
d) provide advice and information useful for the safe and efficient conduct of
flights;
e) notify appropriate organizations regarding aircraft in need of search and
rescue aid, and assist such organizations as required.
2.3 Divisions of the air traffic services
The air traffic services shall comprise three services identified as follows.
2.3.1 The air traffic control service, to accomplish objectives a), b) and c) of 2.2,
this service being divided in three parts as follows:
a) Area control service: the provision of air traffic control service for controlled
flights, except for those parts of such flights described in 2.3.1 b) and c),
in order to accomplish objectives a) and c) of 2.2;
b) Approach control service: the provision of air traffic control service for
those parts of controlled flights associated with arrival or departure, in
order to accomplish objectives a) and c) of 2.2;
c) Aerodrome control service: the provision of air traffic control service for
aerodrome traffic, except for those parts of flights described in 2.3.1 b), in
order to accomplish objectives a), b) and c) of 2.2.
2.3.2 The flight information service, to accomplish objective d) of 2.2.
2.3.3 The alerting service, to accomplish objective e) of 2.2.
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2.4 Determination of the need for air traffic services
2.4.1 The need for the provision of air traffic services shall be determined by
consideration of the following:
a) the types of air traffic involved;
b) the density of air traffic;
c) the meteorological conditions;
d) such other factors as may be relevant.
2.4.1 The carriage of airborne collision avoidance systems (ACAS) by aircraft in
a given area shall not be a factor in determining the need for air traffic
services in that area.
2.5 Designation of the portions of the airspace and controlled aerodromes
where air traffic services will be provided
2.5.1 When it has been determined that air traffic services will be provided in
particular portions of the airspace or at particular aerodromes, then those
portions of the airspace or those aerodromes shall be designated in
relation to the air traffic services that are to be provided.
2.5.2 The designation of the particular portions of the airspace or the particular
aerodromes shall be as follows:
2.5.2.1 Flight information regions. Those portions of the airspace where it is
determined that flight information service and alerting service will be
provided shall be designated as flight information regions.
2.5.2.2 Control areas and control zones
2.5.2.2.1 Those portions of the airspace where it is determined that air traffic
control service will be provided to IFR flights shall be designated as
control areas or control zones.
2.5.2.2.1.1 Those portions of controlled airspace wherein it is determined that
air traffic control service will also be provided to VFR flights shall be
designated as Classes B, C, or D airspace.
2.5.2.2.1.2 Where designated within a flight information region, control areas
and control zones shall form part of that flight information region.
2.5.2.3 Controlled aerodromes. Those aerodromes where it is determined that
air traffic control service will be provided to aerodrome traffic shall be
designated as controlled aerodromes.
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2.6 Classification of airspaces
2.6.1 ATS airspaces shall be classified and designated in accordance with the
following:
Class A. IFR flights only are permitted, all flights are provided with air traffic
control service and are separated from each other.
Class B. IFR and VFR flights are permitted, all flights are provided with air
traffic control service and are separated from each other.
Class C. IFR and VFR flights are permitted, all flights are provided with air
traffic control service and IFR flights are separated from other IFR flights
and from VFR flights. VFR flights are separated from IFR flights and
receive traffic information in respect of other VFR flights.
Class D. IFR and VFR flights are permitted and all flights are provided with
air traffic control service, IFR flights are separated from other IFR flights
and receive traffic information in respect of VFR flights, VFR flights receive
traffic information in respect of all other flights.
Class E. IFR and VFR flights are permitted, IFR flights are provided with
air traffic control service and are separated from other IFR flights. All flights
receive traffic information as far as is practical. Class E shall not be used
for control zones.
Class F. IFR and VFR flights are permitted, all participating IFR flights
receive an air traffic advisory service and all flights receive flight
information service if requested.
Class G. IFR and VFR flights are permitted and receive flight information
service if requested.
2.6.2 Airspace classes have been classified in AIP India ENR 1.4.
2.6.3 The requirements for flights within each class of airspace shall be as
shown in the table in Appendix 4.
Note.— Where the ATS airspaces adjoin vertically, i.e. one above the other,
flights at a common level would comply with requirements of, and be given
services applicable to, the less restrictive class of airspace. In applying these
criteria, Class B airspace is therefore considered less restrictive than Class A
airspace; Class C airspace less restrictive than Class B airspace, etc.
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2.7 Performance-based navigation (PBN) operations
2.7.1 In applying performance-based navigation, navigation specifications shall
be prescribed by the ATS provider. When applicable, the navigation
specification(s) for designated areas, tracks or ATS routes shall be
prescribed on the basis of regional air navigation agreements. In
designating a navigation specification, limitations may apply as a result of
navigation infrastructure constraints or specific navigation functionality
requirements.
2.7.2 Performance-based navigation operations shall be implemented as per
the National Plan.
2.7.3 The prescribed navigation specification shall be appropriate to the level of
communications, navigation and air traffic services provided in the
airspace concerned.
Note. — Applicable guidance on performance-based navigation is published in
the Performance- Based Navigation Performance Manual (Doc 9613).
2.8 Performance-based communication (PBC) operations
2.8.1. In applying performance-based communication (PBC), RCP specifications
shall be prescribed by States. When applicable, the RCP specification(s)
shall be prescribed on the basis of regional air navigation agreements.
Note. — In prescribing an RCP specification, limitations may apply as a result of
communication infrastructure constraints or specific communication functionality
requirements.
2.8.2 The prescribed RCP specification shall be appropriate to the air traffic
services provided.
Note. — Information on the performance-based communication and surveillance
(PBCS) concept and guidance material on its implementation are contained in the
Performance-based Communication and Surveillance (PBCS) Manual(Doc 9869).
2.9 Performance-based surveillance (PBS) operations
2.9.1 In applying performance-based surveillance (PBS), RSP specifications
shall be prescribed by States. When applicable, the RSP specification(s)
shall be prescribed on the basis of regional air navigation agreements.
Note. — In prescribing an RSP specification, limitations may apply as a result of
surveillance infrastructure constraints or specific surveillance functionality
requirements.
2.9.2 The prescribed RSP specification shall be appropriate to the air traffic
services provided.
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2.9.3 Where an RSP specification has been prescribed by States for
performance-based surveillance, ATS units shall be provided with
equipment capable of performance consistent with the prescribed RSP
specification(s).
Note. — Information on the PBCS concept and guidance material on its
implementation are contained in the Performance-based Communication and
Surveillance (PBCS) Manual (Doc 9869).
2.10 Establishment and designation of the units providing air traffic
services
The air traffic services shall be provided by units established and
designated as follows:
2.10.1 Flight information centres shall be established to provide flight information
service and alerting service within flight information regions, unless the
responsibility of providing such services within a flight information region
is assigned to an air traffic control unit having adequate facilities for the
discharge of such responsibility.
Note. — This does not preclude delegating to other units the function of providing
certain elements of the flight information service.
2.10.2 Air traffic control units shall be established to provide air traffic control
service, flight information service and alerting service within control areas,
control zones and at controlled aerodromes.
Note. — The services to be provided by various air traffic control units are
indicated in 3.2.
2.11 Specifications for flight information regions, control areas and
control zones
2.11.1 The delineation of airspace, wherein air traffic services are to be provided,
shall be related to the nature of the route structure and the need for
efficient service.
Note — Where delineation of airspace is made by reference to national
boundaries there is a need for suitably sited transfer points to be mutually agreed
upon.
2.11.2 Flight information regions
2.11.2.1 Flight information regions shall be delineated to cover the whole of
the air route structure to be served by such regions.
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2.11.2.2 A flight information region shall include all airspace within its lateral
limits, except as limited by an upper flight information region.
2.11.2.3 Where a flight information region is limited by an upper flight
Information region, the lower limit specified for the upper flight
information region shall constitute the upper vertical limit of the
flight information region and shall coincide with a VFR cruising level
of the tables in Appendix 3 to CAR Section 9, Series ‘C’ Part I.
Note. — In cases where an upper flight information region is established the
procedures applicable therein need not be identical with those applicable in the
underlying flight information region.
2.11.3 Control areas
2.11.3.1 Control areas including, inter alia, airways and terminal control
areas shall be delineated so as to encompass sufficient airspace to contain
the flight paths of those IFR flights or portions thereof to which it is desired
to provide the applicable parts of the air traffic control service, taking into
account the capabilities of the navigation aids normally used in that area.
Note. — In a control area other than one formed by a system of airways,a system
of routes may be established to facilitate the provision of air traffic control.
2.11.3.2 A lower limit of a control area shall be established at a height above
the ground or water of not less than 200 m (700 ft).
Note. — This does not imply that the lower limit has to be established uniformly in
a given control area (see Figure A-5 of the Air Traffic Services Planning Manual
(Doc 9426), Part I, Section 2, Chapter 3).
2.11.3.2.1 The lower limit of a control area shall, when practicable and
desirable in order to allow freedom of action for VFR flights
below the control area, be established at a greater height than
the minimum specified in 2.10.3.2.
2.11.3.2.2 When the lower limit of a control area is above 900 m (300 ft)
MSL it should coincide with a VFR cruising level of the tables
in Appendix 3, CAR Section 9, Series ‘C’ Part I.
Note.— This implies that the selected VFR cruising level be such that expected
local atmospheric pressure variations do not result in a lowering of this limit to a
height of less than 200 m (700 ft) above ground or water.
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2.11.3.3 An upper limit of a control area shall be established when either:
a) air traffic control service will not be provided above such upper limit; or
b) the control area is situated below an upper control area, in which case
the upper limit shall coincide with the lower limit of the upper control
area.
When established, such upper limit shall coincide with a VFR cruising level
of the tables in Appendix 3 of CAR Section 9, Series ‘C’ Part I.
2.11.4 Flight information regions or control areas in the upper airspace
Where it is desirable to limit the number of flight information regions or
control areas through which high flying aircraft would otherwise have to
operate, a flight information region or control area, as appropriate, shall be
delineated to include the upper airspace within the lateral limits of a
number of lower flight information regions or control areas.
2.11.5 Control zones
2.11.5.1 The lateral limits of control zones shall encompass at least those
portions of the airspace, which are not within control areas, containing the
paths of IFR flights arriving at and departing from aerodromes to be used
under instrument meteorological conditions.
Note. — Aircraft holding in the vicinity of aerodromes are considered as arriving
aircraft.
2.11.5.2 The lateral limits of a control zone shall extend to at least 9.3 km
(5 NM) from the centre of the aerodrome or aerodromes concerned in the
directions from which approaches may be made.
Note. —A control zone may include two or more aerodromes situated close
together.
2.11.5.3 If a control zone is located within the lateral limits of a control
area, it shall extend upwards from the surface of the earth to at
least the lower limit of the control area.
Note. — An upper limit higher than the lower limit of the overlying control area
may be established when desired.
2.11.5.4 If a control zone is located outside of the lateral limits of a control
area, an upper limit should be established.
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2.11.5.5 If it is desired to establish the upper limit of a control zone at a
level higher than the lower limit of the control area established
above it, or if the control zone is located outside of the lateral
limits of a control area, its upper limit shall be established at a
level which can easily be identified by pilots. When this limit is
above 900 m (3000 ft) MSL it shall coincide with a VFR cruising
level of the tables in Appendix 3, CAR Section 9, Series ‘C’ Part I.
Note.— This implies that, if used, the selected VFR cruising level be such that
expected local atmospheric pressure variations do not result in a lowering of this
limit to a height of less than 200 m (700 ft) above ground or water.
2.12 Identification of air traffic services units and airspaces
2.12.1 An area control centre or flight information centre shall be identified
by the name of a nearby town or city or geographic feature.
2.12.2 An aerodrome control tower or approach control unit shall be
identified by the name of the aerodrome at which it is located.
2.12.3 A control zone, control area or flight information region shall be
identified by the name of the unit having jurisdiction over such airspace.
2.13 Establishment and identification of ATS routes
2.13.1 When ATS routes are established, a protected airspace along each
ATS route and a safe spacing between adjacent ATS routes shall be
provided.
2.13.2 When warranted by density, complexity or nature of the traffic,
special routes shall be established for use by low-level traffic, including
helicopters operating to and from helideck s on the high seas. When
determining the lateral spacing between such routes, account shall be taken
of the navigational means available and the navigation equipment carried on
board helicopters.
2.13.3 ATS routes shall be identified by designators.
2.13.4 Designators for ATS routes other than standard departure and
arrival routes shall be selected in accordance with the principles set forth in
Appendix 1.
2.13.5 Standard departure and arrival routes and associated procedures
shall be identified in accordance with the principles set forth in Appendix 3.
Note 1. — Guidance material relating to the establishment of ATS routes is
contained in the Air Traffic Services Planning Manual (Doc 9426).
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Note 2. — Guidance material relating to the establishment of ATS routes defined by
VOR and spacing between parallel tracks and parallel ATS route defined by VOR is
contained in Attachment A.
Note 3. — The spacing between parallel track s or between parallel ATS route centre
lines based on performance-based navigation will be dependent upon the relevant
navigation specification required.
2.14 Establishment of change-over points
2.14.1 Change- over points shall be established on ATS route segments
defined by reference to very high frequency omnidirectional radio ranges where
this will assist accurate navigation along the route segments. The establishment
of change-over points shall be limited to route segments of 110 km (60 NM) or
more, except where the complexity of ATS routes, the density of navigation aids
or other technical and operational reasons warrant the establishment of change-
over points on shorter route segments.
2.14.2 Unless otherwise established in relation to the performance of the
navigation aids or frequency protection criteria, the change-over point on a route
segment shall be the mid- point between the facilities in the case of a straight
route segment or the intersection of radials in the case of a route segment which
changes direction between the facilities.
Note. — Guidance on the establishment of change-over points is contained in
Attachment A.
2.15 Establishment and identification of significant points
2.15.1 Significant points shall be established for the purpose of defining an ATS
route or instrument approach procedure and/or in relation to the requirements of
air traffic services for information regarding the progress of aircraft in flight.
2.15.2 Significant points shall be identified by designators.
2.15.3 Significant points shall be established and identified in accordance with
the principles set forth in Appendix 2.
2.16 Establishment and identification of standard routes for taxiing
aircraft
2.16.1 Where necessary, standard routes for taxiing aircraft shall be established
on an aerodrome between runways, aprons and maintenance areas. Such routes
shall be direct, simple and where practicable, designed to avoid traffic conflicts.
2.16.2 Standard routes for taxiing aircraft shall be identified by designators
distinctively different from those of the runways and ATS routes.
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2.17 Coordination between the operator and air traffic services
2.17.1 Air traffic services units, in carrying out their objectives, shall have due
regard for the requirements of the operators consequent on their
obligations as specified in relevant CARs of Section 8 Series ‘O’, and, if so
required by the operators, shall make available to them or their designated
representatives such information as may be available to enable them or
their designated representatives to carry out their responsibilities.
2.17.2 When so requested by an operator, messages (including position
reports) received by air traffic services units and relating to the operation
of the aircraft for which operational control service is provided by that
operator shall, so far as practicable, be made available immediately to the
operator or a designated representative in accordance with locally agreed
procedures.
Note. — For aircraft subjected to unlawful interference, see 2.23.3.
2.18 Coordination between military authorities and air traffic services
2.18.1 Air traffic services authorities shall establish and maintain close
cooperation with military authorities responsible for activities that may affect
flights of civil aircraft.
2.18.2 Coordination of activities potentially hazardous to civil aircraft shall be
effected in accordance with 2.19.
2.18.3 Arrangements shall be made to permit information relevant to the safe and
expeditious conduct of flights of civil aircraft to be promptly exchanged between
air traffic services units and appropriate military units.
2.18.3.1 Air traffic services units shall, either routinely or on request, in
accordance with locally agreed procedures, provide appropriate military units
with pertinent flight plan and other data concerning flights of civil aircraft. In order
to eliminate or reduce the need for interceptions, air traffic ser-vices authorities
shall designate any areas or routes where the requirements of CAR Section 9,
Series ‘E’ Part I concerning flight plans, two-way communications and position
reporting apply to all flights to ensure that all pertinent data is available in
appropriate air traffic services units specifically for the purpose of facilitating
identification of civil aircraft.
Note. — For aircraft subjected to unlawful interference, see 2.24.3 and 2.25.1.3
2.18.3.2 Special procedures shall be established in order to ensure that:
a) air traffic services units are notified if a military unit observes that an aircraft
which is, or might be, a civil aircraft is approaching, or has entered, any area
in which interception might become necessary ;
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b) all possible efforts are made to confirm the identity of the aircraft
and to provide it with the navigational guidance necessary to avoid
the need for interception.
2.19 Coordination of activities potentially hazardous to civil aircraft
2.19.1 The arrangements for activities potentially hazardous to civil aircraft,
whether over the territory of India or over the high seas, shall be
coordinated with the appropriate air traffic services authorities. The
coordination shall be effected early enough to permit timely
promulgation of information regarding the activities in accordance
with the provisions of CAR Section 9 Series ‘I’ Part 1.
2.19.1.1 If the appropriate ATS authority is not that of India where the
organization planning the activities is located, initial coordination shall
be effected through the ATS authority responsible for the airspace over
the State where the organization is located.
2.19.2 The objective of the coordination shall be to achieve the best
arrangements which will avoid hazards to civil aircraft and minimize
interference with the normal operations of such aircraft.
2.19.2.1 In determining these arrangements the following should be
applied:
a) the locations or areas, times and durations for the activities should
be selected to avoid closure or realignment of established ATS routes,
blocking of the most economic flight levels, or delays of scheduled
aircraft operations, unless no other options exist;
b) the size of the airspace designated for the conduct of the activities
should be kept as small as possible;
c) direct communication between the appropriate ATS authority or air
traffic services unit and the organization or unit conducting the activities
should be provided for use in the event that civil aircraft emergencies
or other unforeseen circumstances require discontinuation of the
activities.
2.19.3 The ATS authorities shall be responsible for initiating the
promulgation of information regarding the activities.
2.19.3 The appropriate ATS authority shall ensure that a safety risk
assessment is conducted, as soon as practicable, for activities
potentially hazardous to civil aircraft and that appropriate risk
mitigation measures are implemented.
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Note 1.— Such risk mitigation measures may include, but would not be limited to,
airspace restriction or temporary withdrawal of established ATS routes or portions
thereof.
Note 2.— Guidance on safety risk management can be found in the Safety
Management Manual (SMM) (Doc 9859).
2.19.3.1 States shall establish procedures to enable the organization or
unit conducting or identifying activities potentially hazardous to civil aircraft
to contribute to the safety risk assessment in order to facilitate
consideration of all relevant safety significant factors.
Note.— Guidance on collaborative decision-making (CDM) processes for safety
risk assessment and promulgation through NOTAM that could involve military
authorities can be found in the Manual Concerning Safety Measures Relating to
Military Activities Potentially Hazardous to Civil Aircraft Operations (Doc 9554).
2.19.4 The appropriate ATS authorities shall be responsible for initiating the
promulgation of information regarding the activities.
2.19.4 2.19.5 If activities potentially hazardous to civil aircraft take place on a
regular or continuing basis, special committees shall be established as
required to ensure that the requirements of all parties concerned are
adequately coordinated.
2.19.5 2.19.6 Adequate steps shall be taken to prevent emission of laser beams
from adversely affecting flight operations.
Note — Guidance material regarding the hazardous effects of laser emitters on
flight operations is contained in the Manual on Laser Emitters and Flight Safety
(Doc 9815).
2.19.6 2.19.7 In order to provide added airspace capacity and to improve
efficiency and flexibility of aircraft operations, procedures shall be
established for flexible use of airspace reserved for military or other special
activities. The procedures should permit all airspace users to have safe
access to such reserved airspace.
2.20 Aeronautical data
2.20.1 Determination and reporting of air traffic services-related aeronautical
data shall be in accordance with the accuracy and integrity classification
required to meet the needs of the end-user of aeronautical data.
Note. — Specifications concerning the accuracy and integrity classification of air traffic
services-related aeronautical data are contained in PANS-AIM (Doc 10066),
Appendix 1.
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2.20.2 Digital data error detection techniques shall be used during the
transmission and/or storage of aeronautical data and digital data sets.
Note. - Detailed specifications concerning digital data error detection techniques are
contained in PANS-AIM (Doc 10066).
2.21 Coordination between meteorological and air traffic services
authorities
2.21.1 To ensure that aircraft receive the most up-to-date meteorological
information for aircraft operations, arrangements shall be made, where
necessary, between meteorological and air traffic services authorities for air
traffic services personnel:
a) in addition to using indicating instruments, to report, if observed by air
traffic services personnel or communicated by aircraft, such other
meteorological elements as may be agreed upon;
b) to report as soon as possible to the associated meteorological office
meteorological phenomena of operational significance, if observed by
air traffic services personnel or communicated by aircraft, which have
not been included in the aerodrome meteorological report;
c) to report as soon as possible to the associated meteorological office
pertinent information concerning pre-eruption volcanic activity, volcanic
eruptions and information concerning volcanic ash cloud. In addition,
area control centres and flight information centres shall report the
information to the associated meteorological watch office and volcanic
ash advisory centres (VAACs).
Note 1. — VAACs are designated by regional air navigation agreements in
accordance with Annex 3, Section 3.5.1.
Note 2. — See 4.2.3 regarding transmission of special air-reports.
2.21.2 Close coordination shall be maintained between area control centres,
flight information centres and associated meteorological watch offices
to ensure that information on volcanic ash included in NOTAM and
SIGMET messages is consistent.
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2.22 Coordination between aeronautical information services and air
traffic services authorities
2.22.1 To ensure that aeronautical information services units obtain
information to enable them to provide up-to-date pre-flight information
and to meet the need for in-flight information, arrangements shall be
made between aeronautical information services and air traffic
services authorities responsible for air traffic services to report to the
responsible aeronautical information services unit, with a minimum of
delay:
a) information on aerodrome conditions;
b) the operational status of associated facilities, services and navigation
aids within their area of responsibility;
c) the occurrence of volcanic activity observed by air traffic services
personnel or reported by aircraft; and
d) any other information considered to be of operational significance.
2.22.2 Before introducing changes to the air navigation system, due account
shall be taken by the services responsible for such changes of the time
needed by the aeronautical information service for the preparation,
production and issuance of relevant material for promulgation. To
ensure timely provision of the information to the aeronautical
information service, close coordination between those services
concerned is therefore required.
2.22.2 Of particular importance are changes to aero-nautical information that
affect charts and/or computer-based navigation systems which qualify
to be notified by the Aeronautical Information Regulation and Control
(AIRAC) system, as specified in Annex 15, Chapter 6. The
predetermined, internationally agreed AIRAC effective dates shall be
observed by the responsible air traffic services when submitting the raw
information/data to aeronautical information services.
Note. — Detailed specifications concerning the AIRAC system are contained
in PANS-AIM (Doc 10066), Chapter 6.
2.22.3 The air traffic services responsible for the provision of raw aeronautical
information/data to the aeronautical information services shall do so
while taking into account accuracy and integrity requirements required
to meet the needs of the end-user of aeronautical data.
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Note1.—Specifications concerning the accuracy and integrity classification of air
traffic services-related aeronautical data are contained in PANS-AIM (Doc 10066),
Appendix 1.
Note 2. — Specifications for the issue of a NOTAM, SNOWTAM and ASHTAM
are contained in Annex 15, Chapter 6.
Note 3. — Reports of volcanic activity comprise the information detailed in Annex3,
Chapter 4.
Note 4. — AIRAC information is distributed by the aeronautical information service
at least 42 days in advance of the AIRAC effective dates with the objective of
reaching recipients at least 28 days in advance of the effective date.
Note 5. — The schedule of the predetermined, inter-nationally agreed AIRAC
common effective dates at intervals of 28 days and guidance for the AIRAC use
are contained in the Aeronautical Information Services Manual (Doc 8126,
Chapter 2, 2.6).
2.23 Minimum flight altitudes
Minimum flight altitudes shall be determined and promulgated for each
ATS route and control area over its territory. The minimum flight altitudes
determined shall provide a minimum clearance above the controlling
obstacle located within the areas concerned.
Note - Information on Minimum flight altitudes for each ATS route and control
areas are published in AIP India
2.24 Service to aircraft in the event of an emergency
2.24.1 An aircraft known or believed to be in a state of emergency, including being
subjected to unlawful interference, shall be given maximum consideration,
assistance and priority over other aircraft as may be necessitated by the
circumstances.
Note. — To indicate that it is in a state of emergency, an aircraft equipped with an
appropriate data link capability and/ or an SSR transponder might operate the
equipment as follows:
a) on Mode A, Code 7700 ; or
b) on Mode A, Code 7500 , to indicate specifically that it is being subjected to
unlawful interference; and / or
c) activate the appropriate emergency and/or urgency capability of ADS-B or
ADS-C;and or
d) transmit the appropriate emergency message via CPDLC.
2.24.1.1 In communications between ATS units and aircraft in the event
of an emergency, Human Factors principles shall be observed.
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Note. — Guidance material on Human Factors principles can be found in the
Human Factors Training Manual (Doc 9683).
2.24.2 When an occurrence of unlawful interference with an aircraft takes place
or is suspected, ATS units shall attend promptly to requests by the aircraft.
Information pertinent to the safe conduct of the flight shall continue to be
transmitted and necessary action shall be taken to expedite the conduct
of all phases of the flight, especially the safe landing of the aircraft.
2.24.3 When an occurrence of unlawful interference with an aircraft takes place
or is suspected, ATS units shall, in accordance with locally agreed
procedures, immediately inform the appropriate authority designated by
the State and exchange necessary information with the operator or its
designated representative.
Note 1. — A strayed or unidentified aircraft may be suspected as being the subject
of unlawful interference. See 2.25.1.3.
Note 2. — Procedures relating to the handling of strayed or unidentified aircraft
are contained in 2.25.1.
Note 3.—PANS-ATM , Chapter 15, 15.1.3 contains more specific procedures
related to unlawful interference.
2.25 In-flight contingencies
2.25.1 Strayed or unidentified aircraft
Note 1. — The terms “strayed aircraft” and “unidentified aircraft” in this
paragraph have the following meanings:
Strayed aircraft. An aircraft which has deviated significantly from its intended
track or which reports that it is lost.
Unidentified aircraft. An aircraft which has been observed or reported to be
operating in a given area but whose identity has not been established.
Note 2. — An aircraft may be considered, at the same time, as a “strayed aircraft”
by one unit and as an “unidentified aircraft” by another unit.
Note 3. — A strayed or unidentified aircraft may be suspected as being the subject
of unlawful interference.
2.25.1.1 As soon as an air traffic services unit becomes aware of a
strayed aircraft it shall take all necessary steps as outlined in 2.25.1.1.1
and 2.25.1.1.2 to assist the aircraft and to safeguard its flight.
Note. — Navigational assistance by an air traffic services unit is particularly
important if the unit becomes aware of an aircraft straying, or about to stray, into
an area where there is a risk of interception or other hazard to its safety.
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2.25.1.1.1 If the aircraft’s position is not known, the air traffic services unit
shall:
a) attempt to establish two-way communication with the aircraft, unless
such communication already exists;
b) use all available means to determine its position;
c) inform other ATS units into whose area the aircraft may have strayed
or may stray, taking into account all the factors which may have
affected the navigation of the aircraft in the circumstances;
d) inform, in accordance with locally agreed procedures, appropriate
military units and provide them with pertinent flight plan and other data
concerning strayed aircraft;
e) request from the units referred to in c) and d) and from other aircraft in
flight every assistance in establishing communication with the aircraft
and determining its position.
Note —The requirements in d) and e) apply also to ATS units
informed in accordance with c).
2.25.1.1.2 When the aircraft’s position is established, the air traffic services
unit shall:
a) advise the aircraft of its position and corrective action to be taken; and
b) provide, as necessary, other ATS units and appropriate military units
with relevant information concerning the strayed aircraft and any
advice given to that aircraft.
2.25.1.2 As soon as an air traffic services unit becomes aware of an
unidentified aircraft in its area, it shall endeavour to establish the identity
of the aircraft whenever this is necessary for the provision of air traffic
services or required by the appropriate military authorities in accordance
with locally agreed procedures. To this end, the air traffic services unit
shall take such of the following steps as are appropriate in the
circumstances:
a) attempt to establish two-way communication with the aircraft;
b) inquire of other air traffic services units within the flight information
region about the flight and request their assistance in establishing two-
way communication with the aircraft;
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c) inquire of air traffic services units serving the adjacent flight information
regions about the flight and request their assistance in establishing
two-way communication with the aircraft;
d) attempt to obtain information from other aircraft in the area.
2.25.1.2.1 The air traffic services unit shall, as necessary, inform the
appropriate military unit as soon as the identity of the aircraft has been
established.
2.25.1.3 Should the ATS unit consider that a strayed or unidentified
aircraft may be the subject of unlawful interference, the appropriate
authority designated by the State shall immediately be informed, in
accordance with locally agreed procedures.
2.25.2 Interception of civil aircraft
2.25.2.1 As soon as an air traffic services unit learns that an aircraft is
being intercepted in its area of responsibility, it shall take such of the
following steps as are appropriate in the circumstances:
a) attempt to establish two-way communication with the intercepted
aircraft via any means available, including the emergency radio
frequency 121.5 MHz, unless such communication already exists;
b) inform the pilot of the intercepted aircraft of the interception;
c) establish contact with the intercept control unit maintaining two-way
communication with the intercepting aircraft and provide it with
available information concerning the aircraft;
d) relay messages between the intercepting aircraft or the intercept
control unit and the intercepted aircraft, as necessary;
e) in close coordination with the intercept control unit take all necessary
steps to ensure the safety of the intercepted aircraft;
f) inform ATS units serving adjacent flight information regions if it appears
that the aircraft has strayed from such adjacent flight information
regions.
2.25.2.2 As soon as an air traffic services unit learns that an aircraft is
being intercepted outside its area of responsibility, it shall take such of the
following steps as are appropriate in the circumstances:
a) inform the ATS unit serving the airspace in which the interception is
taking place, providing this unit with available information that will assist
in identifying the aircraft and requesting it to take action in accordance
with 2.25.2.1;
b) relay messages between the intercepted aircraft and the appropriate
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ATS unit, the intercept control unit or the intercepting aircraft.
2.26 Time in air traffic services
2.26.1 Air traffic services units shall use Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)
and shall express the time in hours and minutes and, when required,
seconds of the 24-hour day beginning at midnight.
2.26.2 Air traffic services units shall be equipped with clocks indicating the
time in hours, minutes and seconds, clearly visible from each operating
position in the unit concerned.
2.26.3 Air traffic services unit clocks and other time-recording devices shall
be checked as necessary to ensure correct time to within plus or minus 30
seconds of UTC. Wherever data link communications are utilized by an air
traffic services unit, clocks and other time-recording devices shall be
checked as necessary to ensure correct time to within 1 second of UTC.
2.26.4 The correct time shall be obtained from a standard time station or,
if not possible, from another unit which has obtained the correct time from
such station.
2.26.5 Aerodrome control towers shall, prior to an aircraft taxiing for take-
off, provide the pilot with the correct time, unless arrangements have been
made for the pilot to obtain it from other sources. Air traffic services units
shall, in addition, provide aircraft with the correct time on request. Time
checks shall be given to the nearest half minute.
2.27 Establishment of requirements for carriage and operation of
pressure-altitude reporting transponders
Requirements for carriage and operation of pressure-altitude reporting
transponders within defined portions of airspace has been given in CAR
Section 2 Series ‘O’ and Series ‘R’.
2.28 Fatigue management
2.28.1 The Air Traffic Service Provider, for managing fatigue in the
provision of air traffic control services, shall comply with CAR Section 9
Series L Part VII - Watch duty time limitations and rest requirements of air
traffic services personnel engaged in air traffic services.
2.28.2 The air traffic services provider, for the purposes of managing its
fatigue-related safety risks, shall establish air traffic controller schedules
to commensurate with the service(s) provided and in compliance with the
prescriptive limitation regulations laid down in CAR Section 9 Series L Part
VII - Watch duty time limitations and rest requirements of air traffic services
personnel engaged in air traffic services.
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2.28.3 The air traffic services provider shall:
a) ensure that the limitations as specified in the above CAR are not
exceeded and that non-duty period requirements are met.
b) familiarize its personnel with the principles of fatigue management and
its policies with regard to fatigue management.
2.4 Note. Complying with the prescriptive limitations regulations does not relieve the air traffic
services provider of the responsibility to manage its risks, including fatigue-related risks, using its
SMS in accordance with the provisions of Annex 19.
2.28 2.29 Safety management
Note. — Annex 19 includes the safety management provisions applicable to ATS
providers. Further guidance is contained in the Safety Management Manual (SMM)
(Doc 9859) and associated procedures are contained in the PANS-ATM.
2.27.1 Any significant safety-related change to the ATC system, including
the implementation of a reduced separation minimum or a new procedure,
shall only be effected after a safety assessment has demonstrated that an
acceptable level of safety will be met and users have been consulted. It
shall be ensured that adequate provision is made for post-implementation
monitoring to verify that the defined level of safety continues to be met.
Note — When, due to the nature of the change, the acceptable level of safety
cannot be expressed in quantitative terms, the safety assessment may rely on
operational judgment.
2.30 Common reference systems
2.30.1 Horizontal reference system
2.30.1.1 World Geodetic System — 1984 (WGS-84) shall be used
as the horizontal (geodetic) reference system for air navigation.
Reported aeronautical geographical coordinates (indicating latitude
and longitude) shall be expressed in terms of the WGS-84 geodetic
reference datum.
Note. — Comprehensive guidance material concerning WGS-84 is contained
in the World Geodetic System — 1984 (WGS-84) Manual (Doc 9674).
2.30.2 Vertical reference system
2.30.2.1 Mean sea level (MSL) datum, which gives the relationship
of gravity-related height (elevation) to a surface known as the geoid,
shall be used as the vertical reference system for air navigation.
Note. — The geoid globally most closely approximates MSL. It is defined
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as the equipotential surface in the gravity field of the Earth which coincides
with the undisturbed MSL extended continuously through the continents.
2.30.3 Temporal reference system
2.30.3.1 The Gregorian calendar and Coordinated Universal Time
(UTC) shall be used as the temporal reference system for air
navigation.
2.30.3.2 When a different temporal reference system is used, this
shall be indicated in GEN 2.1.2 of Aeronautical Information
Publication (AIP).
2.31 Language proficiency
2.31.1 An air traffic services provider shall ensure that air traffic controllers
speak and understand the language(s) used for radiotelephony
communications as specified in Annex 1.
2.31.2 Except when communications between air traffic control units are
conducted in a mutually agreed language, the English language
shall be used for such communications.
2.32 Contingency arrangements
Air traffic services authorities shall develop and promulgate contingency
plans for implementation in the event of disruption, or potential disruption,
of air traffic services and related supporting services in the airspace for
which they are responsible for the provision of such services. Such
contingency plans shall be developed in coordination with the air traffic
services authorities responsible for the provision of services in adjacent
portions of airspace and with airspace users concerned.
Note 1. — Guidance material relating to the development, promulgation and
implementation of contingency plans is contained in Attachment C.
Note 2. — Contingency plans may constitute a temporary deviation from the
approved regional air navigation plans; such deviations are approved, as
necessary, by the President of the ICAO Council on behalf of the Council.
2.33 Identification and delineation of prohibited, restricted and danger
areas
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2.33.1 Each prohibited area, restricted area, or danger area established
shall, upon initial establishment, be given an identification and full details
shall be promulgated.
Note. — See PANS-AIM (Doc 10066), Appendix 2, ENR 5.1.
2.33.2 The identification so assigned shall be used to identify the area in
all subsequent notifications pertaining to that area.
2.33.3 The identification shall be composed of a group of letters and
figures as follows:
a) nationality letters for location indicators assigned to the State or
territory which has established the airspace;
b) a letter P for prohibited area, R for restricted area and D for
danger area as appropriate; and
c) a number, unduplicated within the State or territory concerned.
Note.—Nationality letters are those contained in Location Indicators (Doc 7910).
2.33.4 To avoid confusion, identification numbers shall not be reused for
a period of at least one year after cancellation of the area to which they
refer.
2.33.5 When a prohibited, restricted or danger area is established, the area
should be as small as practicable and be contained within simple
geometrical limits, so as to permit ease of reference by all concerned.
2.34 Instrument flight procedure design service
States shall ensure that an instrument flight procedure design service is in
place in accordance with appendix 8.
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3. AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL SERVICE
3.1 Application
Air traffic control service shall be provided:
a) to all IFR flights in airspace Classes A, B, C, D and E;
b) to all VFR flights in airspace Classes B, C and D;
c) to all special VFR flights;
d) to all aerodrome traffic at controlled aerodromes.
3.2 Provision of air traffic control service
The parts of air traffic control service described in 2.3.1 shall be provided
by the various units as follows:
a) Area control service:
1) by an area control centre; or
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2) by the unit providing approach control service in a control zone
or in a control area of limited extent which is designated primarily
for the provision of approach control service and where no area
control centre is established.
b) Approach control service:
1) by an aerodrome control tower or area control centre when it is
necessary or desirable to combine under the responsibility of
one unit the functions of the approach control service with those
of the aerodrome control service or the area control service;
2) by an approach control unit when it is necessary or desirable to
establish a separate unit.
c) Aerodrome control service: by an aerodrome control tower.
Note. — The task of providing specified services on the apron, e.g. apron management
service, may be assigned to an aerodrome control tower or to a separate unit.
3.3 Operation of air traffic control service
3.3.1 In order to provide air traffic control service, an air traffic control unit shall :
a) be provided with information on the intended movement of each
aircraft, or variations therefrom, and with current information on the
actual progress of each aircraft;
b) determine from the information received, the relative positions of
known aircraft to each other;
c) issue clearances and information for the purpose of preventing collision
between aircraft under its control and of expediting and maintaining an
orderly flow of traffic;
d) coordinate clearances as necessary with other units:
1) whenever an aircraft might otherwise conflict with traffic
operated under the control of such other units;
2) before transferring control of an aircraft to such other units.
3.3.2 Information on aircraft movements, together with a record of air traffic
control clearances issued to such aircraft, shall be so displayed as to
permit ready analysis in order to maintain an efficient flow of air traffic with
adequate separation between aircraft.
3.3.3 It is recommended that air traffic control units be equipped with devices
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that record background communication and the aural environment at air
traffic controller work stations, capable of retaining the information
recorded during at least the last twenty-four hours of operation.
3.3.4 Clearances issued by air traffic control units shall provide separation:
a) between all flights in airspace Classes A and B;
b) between IFR flights in airspace Classes C, D and E;
c) between IFR flights and VFR flights in airspace Class C;
d) between IFR flights and special VFR flights;
e) between special VFR flights when so prescribed by the appropriate
ATS authority,
except that, when requested by an aircraft and if so prescribed by the
appropriate ATS authority for the cases listed under b) above in airspace
Classes D and E, a flight may be cleared without separation being so
provided in respect of a specific portion of the flight conducted in visual
meteorological conditions.
3.3.5 Separation by an air traffic control unit shall be obtained by at least one of
the following:
a) vertical separation, obtained by assigning different levels selected
from:
1) the appropriate tables of cruising levels in Appendix 2 of CAR
Section 9 Series ‘C’ Part I, or
2) a modified table of cruising levels, when so pre-scribed in
accordance with Appendix 2 of CAR Section 9, Series ‘C’ Part I for
flight above FL 410,
except that the correlation of levels to track as prescribed therein shall
not apply whenever otherwise indicated in appropriate aeronautical
information publications or air traffic control clearances;
b) horizontal separation, obtained by providing:
1) longitudinal separation, by maintaining an interval between aircraft
operating along the same, converging or reciprocal tracks, expressed
in time or distance; or
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2) lateral separation, by maintaining aircraft on different routes or in
different geographical areas;
c) composite separation, consisting of a combination of vertical
separation and one of the other forms of separation contained in b)
above, using minima for each which may be lower than, but not less
than half of, those used for each of the combined elements when
applied individually. Composite separation shall only be applied on the
basis of regional air navigation agreements.
Note.—Guidance material relating to the implementation of composite
lateral/vertical separation is contained in the Air Traffic Services Planning Manual
(Doc 9426).
3.3.5.1 For all airspace where a reduced vertical separation minimum of 300 m
(1000 ft) is applied between FL 290 and FL 410 inclusive, a programme
shall be instituted, on a regional basis, for monitoring the height-keeping
performance of aircraft operating at these levels, in order to ensure that
continued application of this vertical separation minimum meets the safety
objectives. The scope of regional monitoring programmes shall be
adequate to conduct analyses of aircraft group performance and evaluate
the stability of altimetry system error.
Note. — Guidance material relating to vertical separation and monitoring of
height-keeping performance is contained in the Manual on Implementation of a
300 m (1000 ft) Vertical Separation Minimum Between FL 290 and FL 410
Inclusive (Doc 9574)
3.3.5.2 Where RCP/RSP specifications are applied, programmes shall be
instituted for monitoring the performance of the infrastructure and the
participating aircraft against the appropriate RCP and/ or RSP
specifications, to ensure that operations in the applicable airspace
continue to meet safety objectives. The scope of monitoring programmes
shall be adequate to evaluate communication and/ or surveillance
performance, as applicable.
Note. —Guidance material relating to RCP and RSP specifications and
monitoring of communication and surveillance performance is contained in the
Performance-based Communication and Surveillance(PBCS) Manual (Doc 9869).
3.3.5.3 It is recommended that arrangements should be put in place, through inter-
regional agreement, for the sharing between regions of data and/ or
information from monitoring programmes.
3.4 Separation minima
3.4.1 The selection of separation minima for application within a given portion of
airspace shall be as follows:
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a) the separation minima shall be selected from those prescribed by the
provisions of the PANS-ATM and the Regional Supplementary
Procedures as applicable under the prevailing circumstances except that,
where types of aids are used or circumstances prevail which are not
covered by current ICAO provisions, other separation minima shall be
established as necessary by:
1) the appropriate ATS authority, following consultation with
operators, for routes or portions of routes contained within the
Indian airspace;
2) regional air navigation agreements for routes or portions of
routes contained within airspace over the high seas or over
areas of undetermined sovereignty.
Note. — Details of current separation minima prescribed by ICAO are contained
in the PANS-ATM and the Regional Supplementary Procedures (Doc 7030).
b) the selection of separation minima shall be made in consultation between
the appropriate ATS authorities responsible for the provision of air traffic
services in neighbouring airspace when:
1) traffic will pass from one into the other of the neighbouring
airspaces;
2) routes are closer to the common boundary of the neighbouring
airspaces than the separation minima applicable in the
circumstances.
Note. — The purpose of this provision is to ensure, in the first case,
compatibility on both sides of the line of transfer of traffic, and, in the other
case, adequate separation between aircraft operating on both sides of the
common boundary.
3.4.2 Details of the selected separation minima and of their areas of application
shall be notified:
a) to the ATS units concerned; and
b) to pilots and operators through aeronautical information publications,
where separation is based on the use by aircraft of specified navigation
aids or specified navigation techniques.
3.5 Responsibility for control
3.5.1 Responsibility for control of individual flights
A controlled flight shall be under the control of only one air traffic control
unit at any given time.
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3.5.2 Responsibility for control within a given block of airspace
Responsibility for the control of all aircraft operating within a given block of
airspace shall be vested in a single air traffic control unit. However, control
of an aircraft or groups of aircraft may be delegated to other air traffic
control units provided that coordination between all air traffic control units
concerned is assured.
3.6 Transfer of responsibility for control
3.6.1 Place or time of transfer
The responsibility for the control of an aircraft shall be transferred from
one air traffic control unit to another as follows:
3.6.1.1 Between two units providing area control service.
The responsibility for the control of an aircraft shall be transferred from
a unit providing area control service in a control area to the unit
providing area control service in an adjacent control area at the time of
crossing the common control area boundary as estimated by the area
control centre having control of the aircraft or at such other point or time
as has been agreed between the two units.
3.6.1.2 Between a unit providing area control service and a unit providing
approach control service. The responsibility for the control of an aircraft
shall be transferred from a unit providing area control service to a unit
providing approach control service, and vice versa, at a point or time
agreed between the two units.
3.6.1.3 Between a unit providing approach control service and an aerodrome
control tower
3.6.1.3.1 Arriving aircraft. The responsibility for the control of an arriving
aircraft shall be transferred from the unit providing approach control
service to the aerodrome control tower, when the aircraft:
a) is in the vicinity of the aerodrome, and:
1) it is considered that approach and landing will be completed in
visual reference to the ground, or
2) it has reached uninterrupted visual meteorological conditions, or
b) is at a prescribed point or level, as specified in letters of agreement or
ATS unit instructions; or
c) has landed.
Note.— Even though there is an approach control unit, control of certain
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flights may be transferred directly from an area control centre to an
aerodrome control tower and vice versa, by prior arrangement between
the units concerned for the relevant part of approach control service to be
provided by the area control centre or the aerodrome control tower, as
applicable.
3.6.1.3.2 Departing aircraft. The responsibility for control of a departing
aircraft shall be transferred from the aerodrome control tower to the
unit providing approach control service:
a) when visual meteorological conditions prevail in the vicinity of the
aerodrome:
1) prior to the time the aircraft leaves the vicinity of the aerodrome,
or
2) prior to the aircraft entering instrument meteorological conditions,
or
3) at a prescribed point or level, as specified in letters of agreement
or ATS unit instructions;
b) when instrument meteorological conditions prevail at the aerodrome:
1) immediately after the aircraft is airborne, or
2) at a prescribed point or level,
as specified in letters of agreement or ATS unit instructions.
Note. — See Note following 3.6.1.3.1.
3.6.1.4 Between control sectors/positions within the same air traffic control
unit
The responsibility for control of an aircraft shall be transferred from one
control sector/position to another control sector/ position within the same
air traffic control unit at a point, level or time, as specified in ATS unit
instructions.
3.6.2 Coordination of transfer
3.6.2.1 Responsibility for control of an aircraft shall not be transferred from
one air traffic control unit to another without the consent of the
accepting control unit, which shall be obtained in accordance with
3.6.2.2, 3.6.2.2.1, 3.6.2.2.2 and 3.6.2.3.
3.6.2.2 The transferring control unit shall communicate to the accepting
control unit the appropriate parts of the current flight plan and any
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control information pertinent to the transfer requested.
3.6.2.2.1 Where transfer of control is to be effected using radar data or ADS-
B, the control information pertinent to the transfer shall include
information regarding the position and, if required, the track and
speed of the aircraft, as observed by radar or ADS-B immediately
prior to the transfer.
3.6.2.2.2 Where transfer of control is to be effected using ADS-C data, the
control information pertinent to the transfer shall include the four-
dimensional position and other information as necessary.
3.6.2.3 The accepting control unit shall:
a) indicate its ability to accept control of the aircraft on the terms specified
by the transferring control unit, unless by prior agreement between the
two units concerned, the absence of any such indication is understood
to signify acceptance of the terms specified, or indicate any necessary
changes thereto; and
b) specify any other information or clearance for a subsequent portion of
the flight, which it requires the aircraft to have at the time of transfer.
3.6.2.4 The accepting control unit shall notify the transferring control unit when
it has established two-way voice and/or data link communications with
and assumed control of the aircraft concerned, unless otherwise
specified by agreement between the two control units concerned.
3.6.2.5 Applicable coordination procedures, including transfer of control
points, shall be specified in letters of agreement and ATS unit
instructions as appropriate.
3.7 Air traffic control clearances
Air traffic control clearances shall be based solely on the requirements for
providing air traffic control service.
3.7.1 Contents of clearances
3.7.1.1 An air traffic control clearance shall indicate:
a) aircraft identification as shown in the flight plan;
b) clearance limit;
c) route of flight;
d) level(s) of flight for the entire route or part thereof and changes of levels
if required;
Note.— If the clearance for the levels covers only part of the route, it is
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important for the air traffic control unit to specify a point to which the part
of the clearance regarding levels applies whenever necessary to ensure
compliance with 3.6.5.2.2 a) of CAR Section 2, Series ‘E’ Part I.
e) any necessary instructions or information on other matters such as
approach or departure manoeuvres, communications and the time of
expiry of the clearance.
Note. — The time of expiry of the clearance indicates the time after which
the clearance will be automatically cancelled if the flight has not been
commenced.
3.7.1.2 Standard departure and arrival routes and associated procedures shall
be established when necessary to facilitate:
a) the safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic;
b) the description of the route and procedure in air traffic control
clearances.
Note. — Material relating to the establishment of standard departure and
arrival routes and associated procedures is contained in the Air Traffic
Services Planning Manual (Doc 9426). The design criteria are contained
in PANS-OPS, Volume II (Doc 8168).
3.7.2 Clearances for transonic flight
3.7.2.1 The air traffic control clearance relating to the transonic
acceleration phase of a supersonic flight shall extend at least to the
end of that phase.
3.7.2.2 The air traffic control clearance relating to the deceleration and
descent of an aircraft from supersonic cruise to subsonic flight
should provide for uninterrupted descent, at least during the
transonic phase.
3.7.3 Read-back of clearances and safety-related information
3.7.3.1 The flight crew shall read back to the air traffic controller safety-related
parts of ATC clearances and instructions which are transmitted by voice.
The following items shall always be read back:
a) ATC route clearances;
b) clearances and instructions to enter, land on, take off from, hold short
of, cross and backtrack on any runway; and
c) runway-in-use, altimeter settings, SSR codes, level instructions,
heading and speed instructions and, whether issued by the controller
or contained in ATIS broadcasts, transition levels.
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3.7.3.1.1 Other clearances or instructions, including conditional clearances,
shall be read back or acknowledged in a manner to clearly indicate
that they have been understood and will be complied with.
3.7.3.1.2 The controller shall listen to the read-back to ascertain that the
clearance or instruction has been correctly acknowledged by the
flight crew and shall take immediate action to correct any
discrepancies revealed by the read-back.
3.7.3.2 Voice read-back of CPDLC messages shall not be required.
Note. — The procedures and provisions relating to the exchange and
acknowledgement of CPDLC messages are contained in Annex 10,
Volume II and PANS-ATM, Chapter 14.
3.7.3.3 Vehicle drivers operating or intending to operate on the manoeuvring area
shall read back to the air traffic controller safety-related parts of instructions
which are transmitted by voice, e.g. instructions to enter, hold short of, cross and
operate on any operational runway or taxiway.
3.7.3.4 The controller shall listen to the read-back to ascertain that the instruction
has been correctly acknowledged by the vehicle driver and shall take immediate
action to correct any discrepancies revealed by the read-back.
3.7.4 Coordination of clearances
An air traffic control clearance shall be coordinated between air traffic
control units to cover the entire route of an aircraft or a specified portion
thereof as follows.
3.7.4.1 An aircraft shall be cleared for the entire route to the aerodrome of first
intended landing:
a) when it has been possible, prior to departure, to coordinate the
clearance between all the units under whose control the aircraft will
come; or
b) when there is reasonable assurance that prior coordination will be
effected between those units under whose control the aircraft will
subsequently come.
Note. — Where a clearance is issued covering the initial part of the flight
solely as a means of expediting departing traffic, the succeeding en-route
clearance will be as specified above even though the aerodrome of first
intended landing is under the jurisdiction of an area control centre other
than the one issuing the en-route clearance.
3.7.4.2 When coordination as in 3.7.4.1 has not been achieved or is not
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anticipated, the aircraft shall be cleared only to that point where
coordination is reasonably assured; prior to reaching such point, or
at such point, the aircraft shall receive further clearance, holding
instructions being issued as appropriate.
3.7.4.2.1 When prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority, aircraft shall
contact a downstream air traffic control unit, for the purpose of
receiving a downstream clearance prior to the transfer of control
point.
3.7.4.2.1.1 Aircraft shall maintain the necessary two-way communication
with the current air traffic control unit whilst obtaining a
downstream clearance.
3.7.4.2.1.2 A clearance issued as a downstream clearance shall be clearly
identifiable as such to the pilot.
3.7.4.2.1.3 Unless coordinated, downstream clearances shall not affect the
aircraft’s original flight profile in any air-space, other than that of
the air traffic control unit responsible for the delivery of the
downstream clearance.
Note. — Requirements relating to the application of downstream
clearance delivery service are specified in Annex 10, Volume II.
Guidance material is contained in the Manual of Air Traffic Services
Data Link Applications (Doc 9694).
3.7.4.2.1.4 Where practicable, and where data link communications are
used to facilitate down-stream clearance delivery, two-way
voice communications between the pilot and the air traffic
control unit providing the downstream clearance should be
available.
3.7.4.3 When an aircraft intends to depart from an aerodrome within a
control area to enter another control area within a period of thirty
minutes, or such other specific period of time as has been agreed
between the area control centres concerned, coordination with the
subsequent area control centre shall be effected prior to issuance
of the departure clearance.
3.7.4.4 When an aircraft intends to leave a control area for flight outside
controlled airspace, and will subsequently re-enter the same or
another control area, a clearance from point of departure to the
aerodrome of first intended landing may be issued. Such clearance
or revisions thereto shall apply only to those portions of the flight
conducted within controlled airspace.
3.7.5 Air traffic flow management
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3.7.5.1 Air traffic flow management (ATFM) shall be implemented for
airspace where air traffic demand at times exceeds, or is expected
to exceed, the declared capacity of the air traffic control services
concerned.
3.7.5.2 ATFM shall be implemented on the basis of regional air navigation
agreements or, if appropriate, through multilateral agreements.
Such agreements should make provision for common procedures
and common methods of capacity determination.
3.7.5.3 When it becomes apparent to an ATC unit that traffic additional to
that already accepted cannot be accommodated within a given
period of time at a particular location or in a particular area, or can
only be accommodated at a given rate, that unit shall so advise the
ATFM unit, when such is established, as well as, when appropriate,
ATS units concerned. Flight crews of aircraft destined to the
location or area in question and operators concerned shall also be
advised of the delays expected or the restrictions that will be
applied.
Note.— Operators concerned will normally be advised, in advance
where possible, of restrictions imposed by the air traffic flow
management unit when such is established.
3.8 Control of persons and vehicles at aerodromes
3.8.1 The movement of persons or vehicles including towed aircraft on the
manoeuvring area of an aerodrome shall be controlled by the aerodrome
control tower as necessary to avoid hazard to them or to aircraft landing,
taxiing or taking off.
3.8.2 In conditions where low visibility procedures are in operation:
a) persons and vehicles operating on the manoeuvring area of an
aerodrome shall be restricted to the essential minimum, and particular
regard shall be given to the requirements to protect the ILS/MLS
sensitive area(s) when Category II or Category III precision instrument
operations are in progress;
b) subject to the provisions in 3.8.3, the minimum separation between
vehicles and taxiing aircraft shall be as prescribed by the appropriate
ATS authority taking into account the aids available;
c) when mixed ILS and MLS Category II or Category III precision
instrument operations are taking place to the same runway
continuously, the more restrictive ILS or MLS critical and sensitive
areas shall be protected.
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3.8.3 Emergency vehicles proceeding to the assistance of an aircraft in distress
shall be afforded priority over all other surface movement traffic.
3.8.4 Subject to the provisions in 3.8.3, vehicles on the manoeuvring area shall
be required to comply with the following rules:
a) vehicles and vehicles towing aircraft shall give way to aircraft which are
landing, taking off or taxiing;
b) vehicles shall give way to other vehicles towing aircraft;
c) vehicles shall give way to other vehicles in accordance with ATS unit
instructions;
d) notwithstanding the provisions of a), b) and c), vehicles and vehicles
towing aircraft shall comply with instructions issued by the aerodrome
control tower.
3.9 Provision of radar and ADS-B
Radar and ADS-B ground systems should provide for the display of safety-
related alerts and warnings, including conflict alert, conflict prediction,
minimum safe altitude warning and unintentionally duplicated SSR codes.
3.10 Use of surface movement radar (SMR)
3.10.1 In the absence of visual observation of all or part of the manoeuvring area
or to supplement visual observation, surface movement radar (SMR) or
other suitable surveillance equipment, should be utilized to:
a) monitor the movements of aircraft and vehicles on the manoeuvring
area;
b) provide directional information to pilots and vehicle drivers as
necessary; and
c) provide advice and assistance for the safe and efficient movement of
aircraft and vehicles on the manoeuvring area.
Note. — See the Manual of Surface Movement Guidance and Control Systems
(SMGCS) (Doc 9476), the Manual on Advanced-Surface Movement Guidance
and Control Systems (A-SMCGS) (Doc 9830) and the Air Traffic Services
Planning Manual (Doc 9426) for guidance on the use of SMR.
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4. FLIGHT INFORMATION SERVICE
4.1 Application
4.1.1 Flight information service shall be provided to all aircraft which are likely to be
affected by the information and which are:
a) provided with air traffic control service; or
b) otherwise known to the relevant air traffic services units.
Note. — Flight information service does not relieve the pilot-in-command
of an aircraft of any responsibilities and the pilot-in-command has to make
the final decision regarding any suggested alteration of flight plan.
4.1.2 Where air traffic services units provide both flight information service and air
traffic control service, the provision of air traffic control service shall have
precedence over the provision of flight information service whenever the provision
of air traffic control service so requires.
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Note.— It is recognized that in certain circumstances aircraft on final
approach, landing, take-off and climb may require to receive without delay
essential information other than that pertaining to the provision of air traffic
control service.
4.2 Scope of flight information service
4.2.1 Flight information service shall include the provision of pertinent:
a) SIGMET and AIRMET information;
b) information concerning pre-eruption volcanic activity, volcanic eruptions and
volcanic ash clouds;
c) information concerning the release into the atmosphere of radioactive
materials or toxic chemicals;
d) information on changes in the availability of radio navigation services;
e) information on changes in condition of aerodromes and associated facilities,
including information on the state of the aerodrome movement areas when
they are affected by snow, ice or significant depth of water;
f) information on unmanned free balloons; and of any other information likely
to affect safety.
4.2.2 Flight information service provided to flights shall include, in addition to that
outlined in 4.2.1, the provision of information concerning:
a) weather conditions reported or forecast at departure, destination and alternate
aerodromes;
b) collision hazards, to aircraft operating in airspace Classes C, D, E, F and G;
c) for flight over water areas, in so far as practicable and when requested by a
pilot, any available information such as radio call sign, position, true track,
speed, etc., of surface vessels in the area.
Note 1.— The information in b), including only known aircraft the presence
of which might constitute a collision hazard to the aircraft informed, will
sometimes be incomplete and air traffic services cannot assume
responsibility for its issuance at all times or for its accuracy.
Note 2. — When there is a need to supplement collision hazard information
provided in compliance with b), or in case of temporary disruption of flight
information service, traffic information broadcasts by aircraft may be
applied in designated airspaces. Guidance on traffic information broad-
casts by aircraft and related operating procedures is contained in
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Attachment B.
4.2.3 ATS units shall transmit, as soon as practicable, special air-reports to other aircraft
concerned, to the associated meteorological office, and to other ATS units
concerned. Transmissions to aircraft should be continued for a period to be
determined by agreement between the meteorological and air traffic services
authorities concerned.
4.2.4 Flight information service provided to VFR flights shall include, in addition to that
outlined in 4.2.1, the provision of available information concerning traffic and
weather conditions along the route of flight that are likely to make operation under
the visual flight rules impracticable.
4.3 Operational flight information service broadcasts
4.3.1 Application
4.3.1.1 The meteorological information and operational information
concerning radio navigation services and aerodromes included in
the flight information service shall, whenever available, be provided
in an operationally integrated form.
4.3.1.2 Where integrated operational flight information messages are to be
transmitted to aircraft, they shall be transmitted with the content
and, where specified, in the sequence indicated, for the various
phases of flight.
4.3.1.3 Operational flight information service broadcasts, when provided,
should consist of messages containing integrated information
regarding selected operational and meteorological elements
appropriate to the various phases of flight. These broadcasts
should be of three major types, i.e. HF, VHF and ATIS.
4.3.1.4 Use of the OFIS messages in directed request/reply transmissions
When requested by the pilot, the applicable OFIS message(s) shall
be transmitted by the appropriate ATS unit.
4.3.2 HF operational flight information service (OFIS) broadcasts
4.3.2.1 Intentionally left blank
4.3.2.2 Intentionally left blank
4.3.2.3 Intentionally left blank
4.3.2.4 Intentionally left blank
4.3.2.5 Intentionally left blank
4.3.3 VHF operational flight information service (OFIS) broadcasts
4.3.3.1 Intentionally left blank
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4.3.3.2 Intentionally left blank
4.3.3.3 Intentionally left blank
4.3.3.4 Intentionally left blank
4.3.3.5 Intentionally left blank
4.3.4 Voice-automatic terminal information service (Voice-ATIS) broadcasts
4.3.4.1 Voice-automatic terminal information service (Voice-ATIS)
broadcasts shall be provided at aerodromes where there is a
requirement to reduce the communication load on the ATS VHF air-
ground communication channels. When provided, they shall
comprise:
a) one broadcast serving arriving aircraft; or
b) one broadcast serving departing aircraft; or
c) one broadcast serving both arriving and departing aircraft; or
d) two broadcasts serving arriving and departing aircraft respectively
at those aerodromes where the length of a broadcast serving both
arriving and departing aircraft would be excessively long.
4.3.4.2 A discrete VHF frequency shall, whenever practicable, be used for
Voice-ATIS broadcasts. If a discrete frequency is not available, the
transmission may be made on the voice channel(s) of the most
appropriate terminal navigation aid(s), preferably a VOR, provided
the range and readability are adequate and the identification of the
navigation aid is sequenced with the broadcast so that the latter is
not obliterated.
4.3.4.3 Voice-ATIS broadcasts shall not be transmitted on the voice
channel of an ILS.
4.3.4.4 Whenever Voice-ATIS is provided, the broadcast shall be
continuous and repetitive.
4.3.4.5 The information contained in the current broad-cast shall
immediately be made known to the ATS unit(s) concerned with the
provision to aircraft of information relating to approach, landing and
take-off, whenever the message has not been prepared by that
(those) unit(s).
Note. — The requirements for the provision of ATIS that applies to both
Voice-ATIS and D-ATIS are contained in 4.3.6 below.
4.3.4.6 Voice-ATIS broadcasts provided at designated aerodromes for use
by air services shall be available in the English language.
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4.3.4.7 Intentionally left blank
4.3.4.8 The Voice-ATIS broadcast message should, whenever practicable,
not exceed 30 seconds, care being taken that the readability of the
ATIS message is not impaired by the speed of the transmission or
by the identification signal of a navigation aid used for transmission
of ATIS. The ATIS broadcast message shall take into consideration
human performance.
Note. — Guidance material on human performance can be found in the
Human Factors Training Manual (Doc 9683).
4.3.5 Data link-automatic terminal information service (D-ATIS)
4.3.5.1 Where a D-ATIS supplements the existing availability of Voice-
ATIS, the information shall be identical in both content and format
to the applicable Voice-ATIS broadcast.
4.3.5.1.1 Where real-time meteorological information is included but the data
remains within the parameters of the significant change criteria, the
content, for the purpose of maintaining the same designator, shall
be considered identical.
Note. — Significant change criteria are specified in Annex 3, 4.3.4.
4.3.5.2 Where a D-ATIS supplements the existing availability of Voice-ATIS
and the ATIS requires updating, Voice-ATIS and D-ATIS shall be
updated simultaneously.
Note. — Guidance material relating to D-ATIS is contained in the Manual
of Air Traffic Services Data Link Applications (Doc 9694). The technical
requirements for the D-ATIS application are contained in Annex 10,
Volume III, Part I, Chapter 3.
4.3.6 Automatic terminal information service (voice and/or data link)
4.3.6.1 Whenever Voice-ATIS and/or D-ATIS is provided:
a) the information communicated shall relate to a single aerodrome;
b) the information communicated shall be updated immediately a
significant change occurs;
c) the preparation and dissemination of the ATIS message shall be the
responsibility of the air traffic services;
d) individual ATIS messages shall be identified by a designator in the form
of a letter of the ICAO spelling alphabet. Designators assigned to
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consecutive ATIS messages shall be in alphabetical order;
e) aircraft shall acknowledge receipt of the information upon establishing
communication with the ATS unit providing approach control service or
the aerodrome control tower, as appropriate;
f) the appropriate ATS unit shall, when replying to the message in e)
above or, in the case of arriving aircraft, at such other time as may be
prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority, provide the aircraft with
the current altimeter setting; and
g) the meteorological information shall be extracted from the local
meteorological routine or special report.
Note.— In accordance with Annex 3, Sections 4.5 and 4.7, the surface
wind direction and speed and runway visual range (RVR) are to be
averaged over 2 minutes and 1 minute, respectively; and the wind
information is to refer to conditions along the runway for departing aircraft
and to conditions at the touchdown zone for arriving aircraft. A template
for the local meteorological report, including the corresponding ranges and
resolutions of each element, are in Appendix 2 to Annex 3. Additional
criteria for the local meteorological report are contained in Chapter 4 of,
and in Attachment C to, Annex 3.
4.3.6.2 When rapidly changing meteorological conditions make it
inadvisable to include a weather report in the ATIS, the ATIS
messages shall indicate that the relevant weather information will
be given on initial contact with the appropriate ATS unit.
4.3.6.3 Information contained in a current ATIS, the receipt of which has
been acknowledged by the aircraft concerned, need not be included
in a directed transmission to the aircraft, with the exception of the
altimeter setting, which shall be provided in accordance with 4.3.6.1
f).
4.3.6.4 If an aircraft acknowledges receipt of an ATIS that is no longer
current, any element of information that needs updating shall be
transmitted to the aircraft without delay.
4.3.6.5 Contents of ATIS shall be kept as brief as possible. Information
additional to that specified in 4.3.7 to 4.3.9, for example information
already available in aeronautical information publications (AIPs)
and NOTAM, should only be included when justified in exceptional
circumstances.
4.3.7 ATIS for arriving and departing aircraft
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ATIS messages containing both arrival and departure information shall
contain the following elements of information in the order listed:
a) name of aerodrome;
b) arrival and/or departure indicator;
c) contract type, if communication is via D-ATIS;
d) designator;
e) time of observation, if appropriate;
f) type of approach(es) to be expected;
g) the runway(s) in use; status of arresting system constituting a potential
hazard, if any;
h) significant runway surface conditions and, if appropriate, braking action;
i) holding delay, if appropriate;
j) transition level, if applicable;
k) other essential operational information;
l) surface wind direction( in degrees magnetic) and speed, including
significant variations and, if surface wind sensors related specifically to the
sections of runway(s) in use are available and the information is required
by operators, the indication of the runway and the section of the runway to
which the information refers;
*m) visibility and, when applicable, RVR and, if visibility/RVR sensors related
specifically to the sections of runway(s) in use are available and the
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information is required by operators, the indication of the runway and the
section of the runway to which the information refers;
*n) present weather;
*o) cloud below 1 500 m (5 000 ft) or below the highest minimum sector
altitude, whichever is greater; cumulonimbus; if the sky is obscured, vertical
visibility when available;
p) air temperature;
†q) dew point temperature;
r) altimeter setting(s);
s) any available information on significant meteorological phenomena in the
approach and climb-out areas including wind shear, and information on
recent weather of operational significance;
t) trend forecast, when available; and
u) specific ATIS instructions.
* These elements are replaced by the term “CAVOK”, whenever the conditions
as specified in the PANS-ATM (Doc 4444), Chapter 11 prevail.
† As determined on the basis of regional air navigation agreements.
4.3.8 ATIS for arriving aircraft
ATIS messages containing arrival information only shall contain the
following elements of information in the order listed:
a) name of aerodrome;
b) arrival indicator;
c) contract type, if communication is via D-ATIS;
d) designator;
e) time of observation, if appropriate;
f) type of approach(es) to be expected;
g) main landing runway(s); status of arresting system constituting a
potential hazard, if any;
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h) significant runway surface conditions and, if appropriate, braking
action;
i) holding delay, if appropriate;
j) transition level, if applicable;
k) other essential operational information;
l) surface wind direction( in degrees magnetic) and speed, including
significant variations and, if surface wind sensors related specifically to
the sections of runway(s) in use are available and the information is
required by operators, the indication of the runway and the section of
the runway to which the information refers;
*m) visibility and, when applicable, RVR; and, if visibility/RVR sensors
related specifically to the sections of runway(s) in use are available
and the information is required by operators, the indication of the
runway and the section of the runway to which the information refers;
*n) present weather;
*o) cloud below 1 500 m (5 000 ft) or below the highest minimum sector
altitude, whichever is greater; cumulonimbus; if the sky is obscured,
vertical visibility when available;
p) air temperature;
†q) dew point temperature;
r) altimeter setting(s);
s) any available information on significant meteorological phenomena in
the approach area including wind shear, and information on recent
weather of operational significance;
t) trend forecast, when available; and
u) specific ATIS instructions.
4.3.9 ATIS for departing aircraft
ATIS messages containing departure information only shall contain the
following elements of information in the order listed:
a) name of aerodrome;
b) departure indicator;
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c) contract type, if communication is via D-ATIS;
d) designator;
e) time of observation, if appropriate;
f) runway(s) to be used for take-off; status of arresting system
constituting a potential hazard, if any;
g) significant surface conditions of runway(s) to be used for take-off and,
if appropriate, braking action;
h) departure delay, if appropriate;
i) transition level, if applicable;
j) other essential operational information;
k) surface wind direction( in degrees magnetic) and speed, including
significant variations and, if surface wind sensors related specifically to
the sections of runway(s) in use are available and the information is
required by operators, the indication of the runway and the section of
the runway to which the information refers;
*l) visibility and, when applicable, RVR and, if visibility/RVR sensors
related specifically to the sections of runway(s) in use are available
and the information is required by operators, the indication of the
runway and the section of the runway to which the information refers;
*m) present weather;
*n) cloud below 1 500 m (5 000 ft) or below the highest minimum sector
altitude, whichever is greater; cumulonimbus; if the sky is obscured,
vertical visibility when available;
o) air temperature;
†p) dew point temperature;
q) altimeter setting(s);
r) any available information on significant meteorological phenomena in
the climb-out area including wind shear;
s) trend forecast, when available; and
t) specific ATIS instructions.
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* These elements are replaced by the term “CAVOK”, whenever the
conditions as specified in the PANS-ATM (Doc 4444), Chapter 11 prevail.
† As determined on the basis of regional air navigation agreements.
4.4 VOLMET broadcasts and D-VOLMET service
4.4.1 HF and/or VHF VOLMET broadcasts and/or D-VOLMET service shall be
provided when it has been determined by regional air navigation
agreements that a requirement exists.
Note. — Annex 3, 11.5 and 11.6 provide details of VOLMET broadcasts
and D-VOLMET service.
4.4.2 VOLMET broadcasts shall use standard radiotelephony phraseologies.
Note.— Guidance on standard radiotelephony phraseologies to be used in
VOLMET broadcasts is given in the Manual on Coordination between Air Traffic
Services, Aeronautical Information Services and Aeronautical Meteorological
Services (Doc 9377), Appendix 1.
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5. ALERTING SERVICE
5.1 Application
5.1.1 Alerting service shall be provided:
a) for all aircraft provided with air traffic control service;
b) in so far as practicable, to all other aircraft having filed a flight plan or
otherwise known to the air traffic services; and
c) to any aircraft known or believed to be the subject of unlawful interference.
5.1.2 Flight information centres or area control centres shall serve as the central point for
collecting all information relevant to a state of emergency of an aircraft operating
within the flight information region or control area concerned and for forwarding
such information to the appropriate rescue coordination centre.
5.1.3 In the event of a state of emergency arising to an aircraft while it is under the
control of an aerodrome control tower or approach control unit, such unit shall
notify immediately the flight information centre or area control centre responsible
which shall in turn notify the rescue coordination centre, except that notification of
the area control centre, flight information centre, or rescue coordination centre
shall not be required when the nature of the emergency is such that the notification
would be superfluous.
5.1.3.1 Nevertheless, whenever the urgency of the situation so requires, the
aerodrome control tower or approach control unit responsible shall first
alert and take other necessary steps to set in motion all appropriate local
rescue and emergency organizations which can give the immediate
assistance required.
5.2 Notification of rescue coordination centers
5.2.1 Without prejudice to any other circumstances that may render such notification
advisable, air traffic services units shall, except as prescribed in 5.5.1, notify
rescue coordination centres immediately an aircraft is considered to be in a state
of emergency in accordance with the following:
a) Uncertainty phase when:
1) no communication has been received from an aircraft within a period of
thirty minutes after the time a communication should have been received,
or from the time an unsuccessful attempt to establish communication with
such aircraft was first made, whichever is the earlier, or when
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2) an aircraft fails to arrive within thirty minutes of the estimated time of
arrival last notified to or estimated by air traffic services units, whichever
is the later, except when no doubt exists as to the safety of the aircraft and
its occupants.
b) Alert phase when:
1) following the uncertainty phase, subsequent attempts to establish
communication with the aircraft or inquiries to other relevant sources have
failed to reveal any news of the aircraft, or when
2) an aircraft has been cleared to land and fails to land within five minutes of
the estimated time of landing and communication has not been re-
established with the aircraft, or when
3) information has been received which indicates that the operating
efficiency of the aircraft has been impaired, but not to the extent that a
forced landing is likely,
except when evidence exists that would allay apprehension as to the safety
of the aircraft and its occupants, or when
4) an aircraft is known or believed to be the subject of unlawful interference.
c) Distress phase when:
1) following the alert phase, further unsuccessful attempts to establish
communication with the aircraft and more widespread unsuccessful
inquiries point to the probability that the aircraft is in distress, or when
2) the fuel on board is considered to be exhausted, or to be insufficient to enable
the aircraft to reach safety, or when
3) information is received which indicates that the operating efficiency of the
aircraft has been impaired to the extent that a forced landing is likely, or
when
4) information is received or it is reasonably certain that the aircraft is about
to make or has made a forced landing,
except when there is reasonable certainty that the aircraft and its occupants are
not threatened by grave and imminent danger and do not require immediate
assistance.
5.2.2 The notification shall contain such of the following information as is available
in the order listed:
a) INCERFA, ALERFA or DETRESFA, as appropriate to the phase of the
emergency;
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b) agency and person calling;
c) nature of the emergency;
d) significant information from the flight plan;
e) unit which made last contact, time and means used;
f) last position report and how determined;
g) colour and distinctive marks of aircraft;
h) dangerous goods carried as cargo;
i) any action taken by reporting office; and
j) other pertinent remarks.
5.2.2.1 Such part of the information specified in 5.2.2, which is not available at the
time notification is made to a rescue coordination centre, shall be sought by
an air traffic services unit prior to the declaration of a distress phase, if
there is reasonable certainty that this phase will eventuate.
5.2.3 Further to the notification in 5.2.1, the rescue coordination centre shall, without
delay, be furnished with:
a) any useful additional information, especially on the development of the state of
emergency through subsequent phases; or
b) information that the emergency situation no longer exists.
Note. — The cancellation of action initiated by the rescue coordination centre
is the responsibility of that centre.
5.3 Use of communication facilities
Air traffic services units shall, as necessary, use all available communication
facilities to endeavour to establish and maintain communication with an aircraft
in a state of emergency, and to request news of the aircraft.
5.4 Plotting aircraft in a state of emergency
When a state of emergency is considered to exist, the flight of the aircraft involved
shall be plotted on a chart in order to determine the probable future position of the
aircraft and its maximum range of action from its last known position. The flights
of other aircraft known to be operating in the vicinity of the aircraft involved shall
also be plotted in order to determine their probable future positions and maximum
endurance.
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5.5 Information to the operator
5.5.1 When an area control or a flight information centre decides that an aircraft is in the
uncertainty or the alert phase, it shall, when practicable, advise the operator prior
to notifying the rescue coordination centre.
Note. — If an aircraft is in the distress phase, the rescue coordination
centre has to be notified immediately in accordance with 5.2.1.
5.5.2 All information notified to the rescue coordination centre by an area control or flight
information centre shall, whenever practicable, also be communicated, without
delay, to the operator.
5.6 Information to aircraft operating in the vicinity of an aircraft in a state
of emergency
5.6.1 When it has been established by an air traffic services unit that an aircraft is in a
state of emergency, other aircraft known to be in the vicinity of the aircraft involved
shall, except as provided in 5.6.2, be informed of the nature of the emergency as soon as
practicable.
5.6.2 When an air traffic services unit knows or believes that an aircraft is being
subjected to unlawful interference, no reference shall be made in ATS air- ground
communications to the nature of the emergency unless it has first been referred to
in communications from the aircraft involved and it is certain that such reference
will not aggravate the situation.
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6. AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMUNICATIONS
6.1 Aeronautical mobile service (air-ground communications)
6.1.1 General
6.1.1.1 Radiotelephony and/or data link shall be used in air-ground
communications for air traffic services purposes.
Note.— Requirements for ATS units to be provided with and to maintain
guard on the emergency channel 121.5 MHz are specified in Annex 10,
Volumes II and V.
6.1.1.2 Where an RCP specification has been prescribed by States for
performance-based communication, ATS units shall, in addition to the
requirements specified in 6.1.1.1, be provided with communication
equipment which will enable them to provide ATS in accordance with the
prescribed RCP specification(s).
Note. — Information on the performance-based communication and
surveillance (PBCS) concept and guidance material on its
implementation are contained in the Performance-based
Communication and Surveillance (PBCS) Manual (Doc 9869).
6.1.1.3 When direct pilot-controller two-way radiotelephony or data link
communications are used for the provision of air traffic control service,
recording facilities shall be provided on all such air-ground communication
channels.
6.1.1.4 Recordings of communications channels as required in paragraph
6.1.1.3 shall be retained for a period of at least thirty days.
6.1.2 For flight information service
6.1.2.1 Air-ground communication facilities shall enable two-way
communications to take place between a unit providing flight information
service and appropriately equipped aircraft flying anywhere within the
flight information region.
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6.1.2.2 Whenever practicable, air-ground communication facilities for flight
information service shall permit direct, rapid, continuous and static- free
two-way communications.
6.1.3 For area control service
6.1.3.1 Air-ground communication facilities shall enable two-way
communications to take place between a unit providing area control service
and appropriately equipped aircraft flying anywhere within the control
area(s).
6.1.3.2 Whenever practicable, air-ground communication facilities for area control
service shall permit direct, rapid, continuous and static-free two-way
communications.
6.1.3.3 Where air-ground voice communication channels are used for area control
service and are worked by air-ground communicators, suitable
arrangements shall be made to permit direct pilot-controller voice
communications, as and when required.
6.1.4 For approach control service
6.1.4.1 Air-ground communication facilities shall enable direct, rapid, continuous
and static-free two-way communications to take place between the unit
providing approach control service and appropriately equipped aircraft
under its control.
6.1.4.2 Where the unit providing approach control service functions as a separate
unit, air-ground communications shall be conducted over communication
channels provided for its exclusive use.
6.1.5 For aerodrome control service
6.1.5.1 Air-ground communication facilities shall enable direct, rapid, continuous
and static-free two-way communications to take place between an
aerodrome control tower and appropriately equipped aircraft operating at
any distance within 45 km (25 NM) of the aerodrome concerned.
6.1.5.2 Where conditions warrant, separate communication channels shall be
provided for the control of traffic operating on the manoeuvring area.
6.2 Aeronautical fixed service (ground-ground communications)
6.2.1 General
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6.2.1.1 Direct-speech and/or data link communications shall be used in ground-
ground communications for air traffic services purposes.
Note. — Indication by time of the speed with which the communication
should be established is provided as a guide to communication services,
particularly to determine the types of communication channels required,
e.g. that “instantaneous” is intended to refer to communications which
effectively provide for immediate access between controllers; “fifteen
seconds” to accept switchboard operation and “five minutes” to mean
methods involving retransmission.
6.2.2 Communications within a flight information region
6.2.2.1 Communications between air traffic services units
6.2.2.1.1 A flight information centre shall have facilities for communications with
the following units providing a service within its area of responsibility:
a) the area control centre, unless collocated;
b) approach control units;
c) aerodrome control towers.
6.2.2.1.2 An area control centre, in addition to being connected to the flight
information centre as prescribed in 6.2.2.1.1, shall have facilities for
communications with the following units providing a service within its
area of responsibility:
a) approach control units;
b) aerodrome control towers;
c) air traffic services reporting offices, when separately established.
6.2.2.1.3 An approach control unit, in addition to being connected to the flight
information centre and the area control centre as prescribed in
6.2.2.1.1 and 6.2.2.1.2, shall have facilities for communications with the
associated aerodrome control tower(s) and, when separately established,
the associated air traffic services reporting office(s).
6.2.2.1.4 An aerodrome control tower, in addition to being connected to the flight
information centre, the area control centre and the approach control unit as
prescribed in 6.2.2.1.1, 6.2.2.1.2 and 6.2.2.1.3, shall have facilities for
communications with the associated air traffic services reporting office,
when separately established.
6.2.2.2 Communications between air traffic services units and other units
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6.2.2.2.1 A flight information centre and an area control centre shall have facilities
for communications with the following units providing a service within
their respective area of responsibility:
a) appropriate military units;
b) the meteorological office serving the centre;
c) the aeronautical telecommunications station serving the centre;
d) appropriate operator’s offices;
e) the rescue coordination centre or, in the absence of such centre, any other
appropriate emergency service;
f) the international NOTAM office serving the centre.
6.2.2.2.2 An approach control unit and an aerodrome control tower shall have
facilities for communications with the following units providing a service
within their respective area of responsibility:
a) appropriate military units;
b) rescue and emergency services (including ambulance, fire, etc.);
c) the meteorological office serving the unit concerned;
d) the aeronautical telecommunications station serving the unit
concerned;
e) the unit providing apron management service, when separately
established.
6.2.2.2.3 The communication facilities required under 6.2.2.2.1 a) and
6.2.2.2.2 a) shall include provisions for rapid and reliable communications
between the air traffic services unit concerned and the military unit(s)
responsible for control of interception operations within the area of
responsibility of the air traffic services unit.
6.2.2.3 Description of communication facilities
6.2.2.3.1 The communication facilities required under 6.2.2.1, 6.2.2.2.1 a) and
6.2.2.2.2 a), b) and c) shall include provisions for:
a) communications by direct speech alone, or in combination with data link
communications, whereby for the purpose of transfer of control using radar
or ADS-B, the communications can be established instantaneously and for
other purposes the communications can normally be established within
fifteen seconds; and
b) printed communications, when a written record is required; the message
transit time for such communications being no longer than five minutes.
6.2.2.3.2 In all cases not covered by 6.2.2.3.1, the communication facilities should
include provisions for:
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a) communications by direct speech alone, or in combination with data link
communications, whereby the communications can normally be established
within fifteen seconds; and
b) printed communications, when a written record is required; the message
transit time for such communications being no longer than five minutes.
6.2.2.3.3 In all cases where automatic transfer of data to and/or from air traffic services
computers is required, suitable facilities for automatic recording shall be
provided.
6.2.2.3.4 The communication facilities required in accordance with 6.2.2.1 and
6.2.2.2 shall be supplemented, as and where necessary, by facilities for
other forms of visual or audio communications, for example, closed circuit
television or separate information processing systems.
6.2.2.3.5 The communication facilities required under 6.2.2.2.2 a), b) and c) shall
include provisions for communications by direct speech arranged for
conference communications.
6.2.2.3.6 The communication facilities required under 6.2.2.2.2 d) shall include
provisions for communications by direct speech arranged for conference
communications, whereby the communications can normally be
established within fifteen seconds.
6.2.2.3.7 All facilities for direct-speech or data link communications between air
traffic services units and between air traffic services units and other units
described under 6.2.2.2.1 and 6.2.2.2.2 shall be provided with automatic
recording.
6.2.2.3.8 Recordings of data and communications as required in 6.2.2.3.3 and
6.2.2.3.7 shall be retained for a period of at least thirty days.
6.2.3 Communications between flight information regions
6.2.3.1 Flight information centres and area control centres shall have facilities for
communications with all adjacent flight information centres and area
control centres.
6.2.3.1.1 These communication facilities shall in all cases include provisions for
messages in a form suitable for retention as a permanent record, and delivery
in accordance with transit times specified by regional air navigation
agreements.
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6.2.3.1.2 Unless otherwise prescribed on the basis of regional air navigation
agreements, facilities for communications between area control centres
serving contiguous control areas shall, in addition, include provisions for
direct-speech and, where applicable, data link communications, with
automatic recording, whereby for the purpose of transfer of control using
radar ADS-B or ADS-C data, the communications can be established
instantaneously and for other purposes the communications can normally
be established within fifteen seconds.
6.2.3.1.3 When so required by agreement between the States concerned in order to
eliminate or reduce the need for interceptions in the event of deviations
from assigned track, facilities for communications between adjacent flight
information centres or area control centres other than those mentioned in
6.2.3.1.2 shall include provisions for direct speech alone, or in combination
with data link communications. The communication facilities shall be
provided with automatic recording.
6.2.3.1.4 The communication facilities in 6.2.3.1.3 shall permit communications to
be established normally within fifteen seconds.
6.2.3.2 Adjacent ATS units should be connected in all cases where special
circumstances exist.
Note. — Special circumstances may be due to traffic density, types of
aircraft operations and/or the manner in which the airspace is organized
and may exist even if the control areas and/or control zones are not
contiguous or have not (yet) been established.
6.2.3.3 Wherever local conditions are such that it is necessary to clear aircraft into
an adjacent control area prior to departure, an approach control unit and/ or
aerodrome control tower shall be connected with the area control centre
serving the adjacent area.
6.2.3.4 The communication facilities in 6.2.3.2 and 6.2.3.3 shall include
provisions for communications by direct speech alone, or in combination
with data link communications, with automatic recording, whereby for the
purpose of transfer of control using radar, ADS-B or ADS-C data, the
communications can be established instantaneously and for other purposes
the communications can normally be established within fifteen seconds.
6.2.3.5 In all cases where automatic exchange of data between air traffic services
computers is required, suitable facilities for automatic recording shall be
provided.
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6.2.3.6 Recordings of data and communications as required in 6.2.3.5 shall be
retained for a period of at least thirty days.
6.2.4 Procedures for direct-speech communications
Appropriate procedures for direct-speech communications shall be developed to
permit immediate connections to be made for very urgent calls concerning the
safety of aircraft, and the interruption, if necessary, of less urgent calls in progress
at the time.
6.3 Surface movement control service
6.3.1 Communications for the control of vehicles other than aircraft on manoeuvring
areas at controlled aerodromes.
6.3.1.1 Two-way radiotelephony communication facilities shall be provided for
aerodrome control service for the control of vehicles on the manoeuvring
area, except where communication by a system of visual signals is deemed
to be adequate.
6.3.1.2 Where conditions warrant, separate communication channels shall be
provided for the control of vehicles on the manoeuvring area. Automatic
recording facilities shall be provided on all such channels.
6.3.1.3 Recordings of communications as required in 6.3.1.2 shall be retained for
a period of at least thirty days.
6.4 Aeronautical radio navigation service
6.4.1 Automatic recording of surveillance data
6.4.1.1 Surveillance data from primary and secondary radar equipment or other
systems(e.g. ADS-B, ADS-C),, used as an aid to air traffic services, shall be
automatically recorded for use in accident and incident investigations,
search and rescue, air traffic control and surveillance systems evaluation
and training.
6.4.1.2 Automatic recordings shall be retained for a period of at least thirty days.
When the recordings are pertinent to accident and incident investigations,
they shall be retained for longer periods until it is evident that they will no
longer be required.
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7. AIR TRAFFIC SERVICES REQUIREMENTS FOR INFORMATION
7.1 Meteorological information
7.1.1 General
7.1.1.1 Air traffic services units shall be supplied with up-to-date information on
existing and forecast meteorological conditions as necessary for the
performance of their respective functions. The information shall be
supplied in such a form as to require a minimum of interpretation on the part
of air traffic services personnel and with a frequency which satisfies the
requirements of the air traffic services units concerned.
7.1.1.2 Air traffic services units shall be supplied with available detailed information
on the location, vertical extent, direction and rate of movement of meteorological
phenomena in the vicinity of the aerodrome, and particularly in the climb-out and approach
areas, which could be hazardous to aircraft operations.
Note. — The meteorological phenomena are listed in Annex 3, Chapter 4, 4.12.1.
7.1.1.3 When computer-processed upper air data are made available to air traffic services
units in digital form for use by air traffic services computers, the contents, format and
transmission arrangements shall be as agreed between the Meteorological Authority and
the appropriate ATS Authority.
7.1.2 Flight information centres and area control centers
7.1.2.1 Flight information centres and area control centres shall be supplied with
meteorological information as described in Annex3, Appendix 9,1.3,
particular emphasis being given to the occurrence or expected occurrence
of deterioration in a weather element as soon as this can be determined.
These reports and forecasts shall cover the flight information region or
control area and such other areas as may be determined on the basis of
regional air navigation agreements.
Note. — For the purpose of this provision, certain changes in
meteorological conditions are construed as deterioration in a weather
element, although they are not ordinarily considered as such. An increase
in temperature may, for example, adversely affect the operation of certain
types of aircraft.
7.1.2.2 Flight information centres and area control centres shall be provided, at
suitable intervals, with current pressure data for setting altimeters, for
locations specified by the flight information centre or area control centre
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concerned.
7.1.3 Units providing approach control service
7.1.3.1 Units providing approach control service shall be supplied with
meteorological information as described in Annex 3, Appendix 9,
1.2 for the airspace and the aerodromes with which they are concerned.
Special reports and amendments to forecasts shall be communicated to the
units providing approach control service as soon as they are necessary in
accordance with established criteria, without waiting for the next routine
report or forecast. Where multiple sensors are used, the displays to which
they are related shall be clearly marked to identify the runway and section
of the runway monitored by each sensor.
Note. — See Note following 7.1.2.1.
7.1.3.2 Units providing approach control service shall be provided with current
pressure data for setting altimeters, for locations specified by the unit
providing approach control service.
7.1.3.3 Units providing approach control service for final approach, landing and
take-off shall be equipped with surface wind display(s). The display(s)
shall be related to the same location(s) of observation and be fed from the
same sensor(s) as the corresponding display(s) in the aerodrome control
tower and in the meteorological station, where such a station exists.
7.1.3.4 Units providing approach control service for final approach, landing and
take-off at aerodromes where runway visual range values are assessed by
instrumental means shall be equipped with display(s) permitting read-out
of the current runway visual range value(s). The display(s) shall be related
to the same location(s) of observation and be fed from the same sensor(s)
as the corresponding display(s) in the aerodrome control tower and in the
meteorological station, where such a station exists.
7.1.3.5 Units providing approach control service for final approach, landing and
take-off at aerodromes where the height of cloud base is assessed by
instrumental means should be equipped with display(s) permitting read-
out of the current value(s) of the height of cloud base. The displays should
be related to the same location(s) of observations and be fed from the same
sensor(s) as the corresponding display(s) in the aerodrome control tower
and in the meteorological station, where such a station exists.
7.1.3.6 Units providing approach control service for final approach, landing and
take-off shall be supplied with information on wind shear which could
adversely affect aircraft on the approach or take-off paths or during circling
approach.
7.1.4 Aerodrome control towers
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7.1.4.1 Aerodrome control towers shall be supplied with meteorological
information as described in Annex 3, Appendix 9, 1.1for the aerodrome
with which they are concerned. Special reports and amendments to
forecasts shall be communicated to the aerodrome control towers as soon
as they are necessary in accordance with established criteria, without
waiting for the next routine report or forecast.
Note. — See Note following 7.1.2.1.
7.1.4.2 Aerodrome control towers shall be provided with current pressure data for
setting altimeters for the aerodrome concerned.
7.1.4.3 Aerodrome control towers shall be equipped with surface wind display(s).
The display(s) shall be related to the same location(s) of observation and be
fed from the same sensor(s) as the corresponding display(s)in the
meteorological station, where such a station exists. Where multiple
sensor(s) are used, the display(s) to which they are related shall be clearly
marked to identify the runway and section of the runway monitored by
each sensor.
7.1.4.4 Aerodrome control towers at aerodromes where runway visual range
values are measured by instrumental means shall be equipped with
display(s) permitting read-out of the current runway visual range value(s).
The display(s) shall be related to the same location(s) of observation and
be fed from the same sensor(s) as the corresponding display(s) in the
meteorological station, where such a station exists.
7.1.4.5 Aerodrome control towers at aerodromes where the height of cloud base is
assessed by instrumental means should be equipped with display(s)
permitting read-out of the current value(s) of the height of cloud base. The
displays should be related to the same location(s) of observations and be
fed from the same sensor(s) as the corresponding display(s) in the
meteorological station, where such a station exists.
7.1.4.6 Aerodrome control towers shall be supplied with information on wind
shear which could adversely affect aircraft on the approach or take-off paths
or during circling approach and aircraft on the runway during the landing
roll or take-off run.
7.1.4.7 Aerodrome control towers and/or other appropriate units shall be supplied
with aerodrome warnings.
7.1.5 Communication stations
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Where necessary for flight information purposes, current meteorological reports
and forecasts shall be supplied to communication stations. A copy of such
information shall be forwarded to the flight information centre or the area control
centre.
7.2 Information on aerodrome conditions and the operational status of
associated facilities
Aerodrome control towers and units providing approach control service shall be
kept currently informed of the operationally significant conditions of the
movement area, including the existence of temporary hazards, and the operational
status of any associated facilities at the aerodrome(s) with which they are
concerned.
7.3 Information on the operational status of navigation aids
7.3.1 ATS units shall be kept currently informed of the operational status of radio
navigation services and visual aids essential for take-off, departure, approach and
landing procedures within their area of responsibility and those visual and those
radio navigation services and visual aids essential for surface movement.
7.3.2 Information on the operational status, and any changes thereto, of radio navigation
services and visual as referred to in 7.3.1 shall be received by the appropriate ATS
unit(s) on a timely basis consistent with the use of the services(s) and aid(s)
involved.
Note.— Guidance material regarding the provision of information to ATS
units in respect to visual and non-visual navigation aids is contained in the
Air Traffic Services Planning Manual (Doc 9426). Specifications for
monitoring visual aids are contained in Annex 14, Volume I, and related
guidance material is in the Aerodrome Design Manual (Doc 9157), Part 5.
Specifications for monitoring non-visual aids are contained in Annex 10,
Volume I.
7.4 Information on unmanned free balloons
Operators of unmanned free balloons shall keep the appropriate air traffic services
units informed of details of flights of unmanned free balloons in accordance with
the provisions contained in CAR Section 4, Series ‘E’ Part I.
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7.5 Information concerning volcanic activity
7.5.1 ATS units shall be informed, in accordance with local agreement, of pre- eruption
volcanic activity, volcanic eruptions and volcanic ash cloud which could affect
airspace used by flights within their area of responsibility.
7.5.2 Area control centres and flight information centres shall be provided with volcanic
ash advisory information issued by the associated VAAC.
Note. — VAACs are designated by regional air navigation agreements in
accordance with Annex 3, 3.5.1.
7.6 Information concerning radioactive materials and toxic chemical
“clouds”
ATS units shall be informed, in accordance with local agreement, of the release
into the atmosphere of radioactive materials or toxic chemicals which could affect
airspace used by flights within their area of responsibility.
Director General of Civil Aviation
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APPENDIX 1.
PRINCIPLES GOVERNING THE IDENTIFICATION OF NAVIGATION
SPECIFICATIONS AND THE IDENTIFICATION OF ATS ROUTES OTHER
THAN STANDARD DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL ROUTES
(Chapter 2, Sections 2.7 and 2.12 refer)
Note. — See Appendix 3 concerning the identification of standard
departure and arrival routes and associated procedures. Guidance
material on the establishment of these routes and procedures is contained
in the Air Traffic Services Planning Manual (Doc 9426).
1. Designators for ATS routes and navigation specifications
1.1 The purpose of a system of route designators and navigation specification(s)
applicable to specified ATS route segment(s), route(s) or area is to allow both pilots
and ATS, taking into account automation requirements:
a) to make unambiguous reference to any ATS route without the need to resort to the
use of geographical coordinates or other means in order to describe it;
b) to relate an ATS route to a specific vertical structure of the airspace, as
applicable;
c) to indicate a required level of navigation performance accuracy, when operating
along an ATS route or within a specified area; and
d) to indicate that a route is used primarily or exclusively by certain types of aircraft.
Note 1. — Specifications concerning the publication of navigation
specification(s) are given in Annex 4, Chapter 7, and PANS-AIM (Doc
10066), Appendix2.
Note 2. — In relation to this appendix and for flight planning purposes, a
prescribed navigation specification is not considered an integral part of the
ATS route designator.
1.2 In order to meet this purpose, the designation system shall:
a) permit the identification of any ATS route in a simple and unique manner;
b) avoid redundancy;
c) be usable by both ground and airborne automation systems;
d) permit utmost brevity in operational use; and
e) provide sufficient possibility of extension to cater for any future
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requirements without the need for fundamental changes.
1.3 Controlled, advisory and uncontrolled ATS routes, with the exception of standard
arrival and departure routes, shall therefore be identified as specified hereafter.
2. Composition of designator
2.1 The ATS route designator shall consist of a basic designator supplemented, if
necessary, by:
a) one prefix as prescribed in 2.3; and
b) one additional letter as prescribed in 2.4.
2.1.1 The number of characters required to compose the designator shall not exceed
six characters.
2.1.2 The number of characters required to compose the designator should, whenever
possible, be kept to a maximum of five characters.
2.2 The basic designator shall consist of one letter of the alphabet followed by a number
from 1 to 999.
2.2.1 Selection of the letter shall be made from those listed hereunder:
a) A, B, G, R for routes which form part of the regional networks of ATS routes and are
not area navigation routes;
b) L, M, N, P for area navigation routes which form part of the regional networks of
ATS routes;
c) H, J, V, W for routes which do not form part of the regional networks of ATS
routes and are not area navigation routes;
d) Q, T, Y, Z for area navigation routes which do not form part of the regional
networks of ATS routes.
2.3 Where applicable, one supplementary letter shall be added as a prefix to the basic
designator in accordance with the following:
1. K to indicate a low-level route established for use primarily by helicopters;
2. U to indicate that the route or portion thereof is established in the upper airspace;
3. S to indicate a route established exclusively for use by supersonic aircraft during
acceleration, deceleration and while in supersonic flight.
2.4 When prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority or on the basis of regional air
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navigation agreements, a supplementary letter may be added after the basic
designator of the ATS route in question in order to indicate the type of service
provided or the turn performance required on the route in question in accordance
with the following:
a) the letter F to indicate that on the route or portion thereof advisory service only is
provided; d) the letter G to indicate that on the route or portion thereof flight
information service only is provided.
Note 1. — Due to limitations in the display equipment on board aircraft, the
supplementary letters “F” or “G” may not be displayed to the pilot.
Note 2. — Implementation of a route or a portion thereof as controlled
route, advisory route or flight information route is indicated in aeronautical
charts and aeronautical information publications in accordance with the
provisions in Annexes 4 and 15.
3. Assignment of basic designators
3.1 Basic ATS route designators shall be assigned in accordance with the following
principles.
3.1.1 The same basic designator shall be assigned to a main trunk route throughout its
entire length, irrespective of terminal control areas, States or regions traversed.
Note. — This is of particular importance where automated ATS data processing
and computerized airborne navigation equipment is used.
3.1.2 Where two or more trunk routes have a common segment, the segment in question
shall be assigned each of the designators of the routes concerned, except where
this would present difficulties in the provision of air traffic service, in which case,
by common agreement, one designator only shall be assigned.
3.1.3 A basic designator assigned to one route shall not be assigned to any other route.
3.1.4 States’ requirements for designators shall be notified to the Regional Offices of
ICAO for coordination.
4. Use of designators in communications
4.1 In printed communications, the designator shall be expressed at all times by not
less than two and not more than six characters.
4.2 In voice communications, the basic letter of a designator shall be spoken in
accordance with the ICAO spelling alphabet.
4.3 Where the prefixes K, U or S specified in 2.3 are used, they shall, in voice
communications, be spoken as follows:
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K — KOPTER
U — UPPER
S — SUPERSONIC
The word “kopter” shall be pronounced as in the word “helicopter” and the words
“upper” and “supersonic” as in the English language.
4.4 Where the letters “F” or “G” specified in 2.4 above are used, the flight crew should
not be required to use them in voice communications.
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APPENDIX 2.
PRINCIPLES GOVERNING THE ESTABLISHMENT AND IDENTIFICATION
OF SIGNIFICANT POINTS
(Chapter 2, Section 2.14 refers)
1. Establishment of significant points
1.1 Significant points should, whenever possible, be established with reference to
ground-based radio navigation aids, preferably VHF or higher frequency aids.
1.2 Where such ground-based radio navigation aids do not exist, significant points
shall be established at locations which can be determined by self- contained
airborne navigation aids, or, where navigation by visual reference to the ground
is to be effected, by visual observation. Specific points may be designated as
‘‘transfer of control’’ points by agreement between adjacent air traffic control
units or control positions concerned.
2. Designators for significant points marked by the site of a radio
navigation aid
2.1 Plain language name for significant points marked by the site of a radio navigation
aid
2.1.1 Whenever practicable, significant points shall be named with reference to an
identifiable and preferably prominent geographical location.
2.1.2 In selecting a name for the significant point, care shall be taken to ensure that the
following conditions are met:
a) the name shall not create difficulties in pronunciation for pilots or ATS personnel
when speaking in the language used in ATS communications. Where the name of
a geographical location in the national language selected for designating a
significant point gives rise to difficulties in pronunciation, an abbreviated or
contracted version of this name, which retains as much of its geographical
significance as possible, shall be selected;
Example: FUERSTENFELDBRUCK = FURSTY
b) the name shall be easily recognizable in voice communications and shall be free
of ambiguity with those of other significant points in the same general area. In
addition, the name shall not create confusion with respect to other communications
exchanged between air traffic services and pilots;
c) the name should, if possible, consist of at least six letters and form two syllables
and preferably not more than three;
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d) the selected name shall be the same for both the significant point and the radio
navigation aid marking it.
2.2 Composition of coded designators for significant points marked by the site of a
radio navigation aid
2.2.1 The coded designator shall be the same as the radio identification of the radio
navigation aid. It shall be so composed, if possible, as to facilitate association with
the name of the point in plain language.
2.2.2 Coded designators shall not be duplicated within 1 100 km (600 NM) of the
location of the radio navigation aid concerned, except as noted hereunder.
Note. — When two radio navigation aids operating in different bands of the
frequency spectrum are situated at the same location, their radio
identifications are normally the same.
2.3 States’ requirements for coded designators shall be notified to the Regional
Offices of ICAO for coordination.
3. Designators for significant points not marked by the site of a radio
navigation aid
3.1 Where a significant point is required at a position not marked by the site of a radio
navigation aid, and is used for ATC purposes, it shall be designated by a unique five-
letter pronounce-able “name-code”. This name-code designator then serves as the
name as well as the coded designator of the significant point.
Note. — The principles governing the use of alphanumeric name-codes in
support of RNAV SIDs, STARs and instrument approach procedures are
detailed in PANS-OPS (Doc 8168).
3.2 The name-code designator shall be selected so as to avoid any difficulties in
pronunciation by pilots or ATS personnel when speaking in the language used in
ATS communications.
Examples: ADOLA, KODAP
3.3 The name-code designator shall be easily recognizable in voice communications
and shall be free of ambiguity with those used for other significant points in the
same general area.
3.4 The unique five-letter pronounceable name-code designator assigned to a
significant point shall not be assigned to any other significant point. When there
is a need to relocate a significant point, a new name-code designator shall be
chosen. In cases when a State wishes to keep the
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allocation of specific name-codes for re-use at a different location, such name-
codes shall not be used until after a period of at least six months
3.5 States’ requirements for unique five-letter pronounceable name-code designators
shall be notified to the Regional Offices of ICAO for coordination.
3.6 In areas where no system of fixed routes is established or where the routes followed
by aircraft vary depending on operational considerations, significant points shall
be determined and reported in terms of World Geodetic System — 1984 (WGS-
84) geographical coordinates, except that permanently established significant
points serving as exit and/or entry points into such areas shall be designated in
accordance with the applicable provisions in 2 or 3.
4. Use of designators in communications
4.1 Normally the name selected in accordance with 2 or 3 shall be used to refer to the
significant point in voice communications. If the plain language name for a
significant point marked by the site of a radio navigation aid selected in
accordance with 2.1 is not used, it shall be replaced by the coded designator which,
in voice communications, shall be spoken in accordance with the ICAO spelling
alphabet.
4.2 In printed and coded communications, only the coded designator or the selected
name-code shall be used to refer to a significant point.
5. Significant points used for reporting purposes
5.1 In order to permit ATS to obtain information regarding the progress of aircraft in
flight, selected significant points may need to be designated as reporting points.
5.2 In establishing such points, consideration shall be given to the following factors:
a) the type of air traffic services provided;
b) the amount of traffic normally encountered;
c) the accuracy with which aircraft are capable of adhering to the current
flight plan;
d) the speed of the aircraft;
e) the separation minima applied;
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f) the complexity of the airspace structure;
g) the control method(s) employed;
h) the start or end of significant phases of a flight (climb, descent, change
of direction, etc.);
i) transfer of control procedures;
j) safety and search and rescue aspects;
k) the cockpit and air-ground communication workload.
5.3 Reporting points shall be established either as “compulsory” or as “on- request”.
5.4 In establishing “compulsory” reporting points the following principles shall apply:
a) compulsory reporting points shall be limited to the minimum necessary for the
routine provision of information to air traffic services units on the progress of
aircraft in flight, bearing in mind the need to keep cockpit and controller workload
and air-ground communications load to a minimum;
b) the availability of a radio navigation aid at a location should not necessarily
determine its designation as a compulsory reporting point;
c) compulsory reporting points should not necessarily be established at flight
information region or control area boundaries.
5.5 “On-request” reporting points may be established in relation to the requirements
of air traffic services for additional position reports when traffic conditions so
demand.
5.6 The designation of compulsory and on-request reporting points shall be reviewed
regularly with a view to keeping the requirements for routine position reporting
to the minimum necessary to ensure efficient air traffic services.
5.7 Routine reporting over compulsory reporting points should not systematically be
made mandatory for all flights in all circumstances. In applying this principle,
particular attention shall be given to the following:
1. high-speed, high-flying aircraft should not be required to make routine position
reports over all reporting points established as compulsory for low- speed, low-
flying aircraft;
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2. aircraft transiting through a terminal control area should not be required to make
routine position reports as frequently as arriving and departing aircraft.
5.8 In areas where the above principles regarding the establishment of reporting
points would not be practicable, a reporting system with reference to meridians of
longitude or parallels of latitude expressed in whole degrees may be established.
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APPENDIX 3.
PRINCIPLES GOVERNING THE IDENTIFICATION OF STANDARD
DEPARTURE AND ARRIVAL ROUTES AND ASSOCIATED PROCEDURES
(See Chapter 2, 2.12.3)
Note. — Material relating to the establishment of standard departure and
arrival routes and associated procedures is contained in the Air Traffic
Services Planning Manual (Doc 9426).
1. Designators for standard departure and arrival routes and associated
procedures
Note. — In the following text the term “route” is used in the meaning of
“route and associated procedures”.
1.1 The system of designators shall:
a) permit the identification of each route in a simple and unambiguous manner;
b) make a clear distinction between:
—departure routes and arrival routes;
—departure or arrival routes and other ATS routes;
— routes requiring navigation by reference to ground-based radio aids or self-
contained airborne aids, and routes requiring navigation by visual reference to the
ground;
3. be compatible with ATS and aircraft data processing and display
requirements;
4. be of utmost brevity in its operational application;
5. avoid redundancy;
6. provide sufficient possibility for extension to cater for any future
requirements without the need for fundamental changes.
1.2 Each route shall be identified by a plain language designator and a corresponding
coded designator.
1.3 The designators shall, in voice communications, be easily recognizable as relating
to a standard departure or arrival route and shall not create any difficulties in
pronunciation for pilots and ATS personnel.
2. Composition of designators
2.1 Plain language designator
2.1.1 The plain language designator of a standard departure or arrival route shall consist
of:
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a) a basic indicator; followed by
b) a validity indicator; followed by
c) a route indicator, where required; followed by
d) the word “departure” or “arrival”; followed by
e) the word “visual”, if the route has been established for use by aircraft operating
in accordance with the visual flight rules (VFR).
2.1.2 The basic indicator shall be the name or name-code of the significant point where a
standard departure route terminates or a standard arrival route begins.
2.1.3 The validity indicator shall be a number from 1 to 9.
2.1.4 The route indicator shall be one letter of the alphabet. The letters “I” and “O” shall
not be used.
2.2 Coded designator
The coded designator of a standard departure or arrival route, instrument or
visual, shall consist of:
a) the coded designator or name-code of the significant point described in
2.1.1 a); followed by
b) the validity indicator in 2.1.1 b); followed by
c) the route indicator in 2.1.1 c), where required.
Note. — Limitations in the display equipment on board aircraft may require
shortening of the basic indicator, if that indicator is a five-letter name-code,
e.g. KODAP. The manner in which such an indicator is shortened is left to
the discretion of operators.
3. Assignment of designators
3.1 Each route shall be assigned a separate designator.
3.2 To distinguish between two or more routes which relate to the same significant
point (and therefore are assigned the same basic indicator), a separate route
indicator as described in 2.1.4 shall be assigned to each route.
4. Assignment of validity indicators
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4.1 A validity indicator shall be assigned to each route to identify the route which is
currently in effect.
4.2 The first validity indicator to be assigned shall be the number “1”.
4.3 Whenever a route is amended, a new validity indicator, consisting of the next
higher number, shall be assigned. The number “9” shall be followed by the
number “1”.
5. Examples of plain language and coded designators
5.1 Example 1: Standard departure route — instrument:
a) Plain language BRECON ONE
designator: DEPARTURE
b) Coded designator: BCN 1
5.1.1 Meaning: The designator identifies a standard instrument departure route which
terminates at the significant point BRECON (basic indicator). BRECON is a radio
navigation facility with the identification BCN (basic indicator of the coded
designator). The validity indicator ONE (1 in the coded designator) signifies either
that the original version of the route is still in effect or that a change has been
made from the previous version NINE (9) to the now effective version ONE (1)
(see 4.3). The absence of a route indicator (see 2.1.4 and 3.2) signifies that only
one route, in this case a departure route, has been established with reference to
BRECON.
5.2 Example 2: Standard arrival route — instrument:
a) Plain language KODAP TWO ALPHA
designator: ARRIVAL
b) Coded designator: KODAP 2 A
5.2.1 Meaning: This designator identifies a standard instrument arrival route which
begins at the significant point KODAP (basic indicator). KODAP is a significant
point not marked by the site of a radio navigation facility and therefore assigned
a five-letter name-code in accordance with Appendix
2. The validity indicator TWO (2) signifies that a change has been made from the
previous version ONE (1) to the now effective version TWO (2). The route
indicator ALPHA (A) identifies one of several routes established with reference to
KODAP and is a specific character assigned to this route.
5.3 Example 3: Standard departure route — visual:
a) Plain language ADOLA FIVE BRAVO
designator DEPARTURE VISUAL
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b) Coded designator: ADOLA 5 B
5.3.1 Meaning: This designator identifies a standard departure route for controlled VFR
flights which terminates at ADOLA, a significant point not marked by the site of
a radio navigation facility. The validity indicator FIVE
(5) signifies that a change has been made from the previous version FOUR
(4) to the now effective version FIVE (5). The route indicator BRAVO (B)
identifies one of several routes established with reference to ADOLA.
6. Composition of designators for MLS/RNAV approach procedures
6.1 Plain language designator
6.1.1 The plain language designator of an MLS/RNAV approach procedure shall consist
of:
a) “MLS”; followed by
b) a basic indicator; followed by
c) a validity indicator; followed by
d) a route indicator; followed by
e) the word “approach”; followed by
f) the designator of the runway for which the procedure is designed.
6.1.2 The basic indicator shall be the name or name-code of the significant point where
the approach procedure begins.
6.1.3 The validity indicator shall be a number from 1 to 9.
6.1.4 The route indicator shall be one letter of the alphabet. The letters “I” and “O”
shall not be used.
6.1.5 The designator of the runway shall be in accordance with Annex 14, Volume
I, 5.2.2.
6.2 Coded designator
6.2.1 The coded designator of an MLS/RNAV approach procedure shall consist of:
a) “MLS”; followed by
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b) the coded designator or name-code of the significant point described in
6.1.1 b); followed by
c) the validity indicator in 6.1.1 c); followed by
d) the route indicator in 6.1.1 d); followed by
e) the runway designator in 6.1.1 f).
6.3 Assignment of designators
6.3.1 The assignment of designators for MLS/RNAV approach procedures shall be in
accordance with paragraph 3. Procedures having identical tracks but different flight
profiles shall be assigned separate route indicators.
6.3.2 The route indicator letter for MLS/RNAV approach procedures shall be assigned
uniquely to all approaches at an airport until all the letters have been used. Only
then shall the route indicator letter be repeated. The use of the same route indicator
for two routes using the same MLS ground facility shall not be permitted.
6.3.3 The assignment of validity indicator for approach procedures shall be in
accordance with paragraph 4.
6.4 Example of plain language and coded designators
6.4.1 Example:
a) Plain language MLS HAPPY ONE ALPHA
designator: APPROACH RUNWAY ONE EIGHT LEFT
b) Coded designator: MLS HAPPY 1 A 18L
6.4.2 Meaning: The designator identifies an MLS/RNAV approach procedure which
begins at the significant point HAPPY (basic indicator). HAPPY is a significant
point not marked by the site of a radio navigation facility and therefore assigned
a five-letter name-code in accordance with Appendix
2. The validity indicator ONE (1) signifies that either the original version of the
route is still in effect or a change has been made from the previous version NINE
(9) to the now effective version ONE (1). The route indicator ALPHA (A)
identifies one of several routes established with reference to HAPPY and is a
specific character assigned to this route.
7. Use of designators in communications
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7.1 In voice communications, only the plain language designator shall be used.
Note.— For the purpose of identification of routes, the words “departure”,
“arrival” and “visual” described in 2.1.1 d) and 2.1.1 e) are considered to
be an integral element of the plain language designator.
7.2 In printed or coded communications, only the coded designator shall be used.
8. Display of routes and procedures to air traffic control
8.1 A detailed description of each currently effective standard departure and/or arrival
route/approach procedure, including the plain language designator and the coded
designator, shall be displayed at the working positions at which the
routes/procedures are assigned to aircraft as part of an ATC clearance, or are
otherwise of relevance in the provision of air traffic control services.
8.2 Whenever possible, a graphic portrayal of the routes/ procedures shall also be
displayed.
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APPENDIX 4.
ATS AIRSPACE CLASSES — SERVICES PROVIDED AND FLIGHT
REQUIREMENTS
(Chapter 2, 2.6 refers)
Radio Subject
Type
Separatio communicatio to an
Class of Service Speed limitation*
n n ATC
flight provided
provided requirement clearanc
e
Air traffic control Continuous two- Yes
A IFR only All aircraft Not applicable
service way
Air traffic control Continuous two-
IFR All aircraft Not applicable Yes
service way
B
Air traffic control Continuous two-
VFR All aircraft Not applicable Yes
service way
IFR from IFR
Continuous two-
IFR from Air traffic control
IFR Not applicable way Yes
VFR service
1) Air traffic control
C
service for
250 kt IAS below 3
VFR from
separation from IFR;
050 m (10 000 ft)
2) VFR/VFR traffic Continuous two-
VFR IFR AMSL Yes
information (and way
traffic avoidance
advice on request)
Air traffic control
service, traffic 250 kt IAS below 3
Continuous two-
IFR information about 050 m (10 000 ft)
IFR from IFR
VFR flights (and AMSL
way Yes
traffic avoidance
advice on request)
D
IFR/VFR and
VFR/VFR traffic 250 kt IAS below 3
information (and 050 m (10 000 ft) Continuous two-
VFR Nil Yes
traffic avoidance AMSL way
advice on request)
Air traffic control
IFR
IFR from IFR service and, as far as 250 kt IAS below 3
Continuous two-
practical, traffic 050 m (10 000 ft) Yes
information about AMSL
way
E VFR flights
250 kt IAS below 3
Traffic information
VFR 050 m (10 000 ft)
Nil as far as practical No No
AMSL
IFR from IFR
Air traffic advisory
as
service; flight
250 kt IAS below 3 Continuous two-
IFR far as 050 m (10 000 ft) way No
information service
practical AMSL
F
250 kt IAS below 3
VFR Flight information
Nil 050 m (10 000 ft) No No
service
AMSL
250 kt IAS below 3 Continuous two-
Flight information
IFR Nil 050 m (10 000 ft) way No
service
AMSL
G 250 kt IAS below 3
Flight information 050 m (10 000 ft) No
VFR Nil No
service AMSL
* When the height of the transition altitude is lower than 3 050 m (10 000 ft) AMSL, FL 100 should be used in lieu of 10 000 ft.
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APPENDIX 7.
STATE RESPONSIBILITIES CONCERNING AN INSTRUMENT FLIGHT
PROCEDURE DESIGN SERVICE
1. A State shall:
a) provide an instrument flight procedure design service; and/ or
b) agree with one or more Contracting State(s) to provide a joint service; and/ or
c) delegate the provision of the service to external agency(ies).
2. In all cases in paragraph 1 above, the State concerned shall approve and remain
responsible for all instrument flight procedures for aerodromes and airspace under the
authority of the State.
3. Instrument flight procedures shall be designed in accordance with State- approved
design criteria.
4. Each State shall ensure that an instrument flight procedure design service provider
intending to design an instrument flight procedure for aerodromes or airspace under the
authority of that State meets the requirements established by that State’s regulatory
framework.
Note.—Guidance material for regulatory framework for the oversight of
instrument flight procedure design service is contained in the Manual on the
Development of a Regulatory Framework for Instrument Flight Procedure
Design Service (Doc 10068).
5. A State shall ensure that an instrument flight procedure design service provider
utilize a quality management system at each stage of the instrument flight procedure
design process.
Note.—This requirement can be met by means of a quality assurance
methodology, such as that described in PANS-OPS (Doc 8168), Volume II,
Part I, Section 2, Chapter 4 – Quality Assurance. Guidance for implementing
such a methodology is contained in The Quality Assurance Manual for Flight
Procedure Design (Doc 9906).
6. A State shall ensure that maintenance and periodic review of instrument flight
procedures for aerodromes and airspace under the authority of the State are
conducted. Each State shall establish an interval for periodic review of instrument
flight procedures not exceeding five years.
Note.— Guidance on maintenance and periodic review is contained in the
Quality Assurance Manual for Flight Procedure Design (Doc 9906).
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ATTACHMENT A.
MATERIAL RELATING TO A METHOD OF ESTABLISHING ATS ROUTES
DEFINED BY VOR
(Paragraph 2.7.1 and 2.12 refer)
1. Introduction
1.1 The guidance material in this Attachment results from comprehensive studies,
carried out in Europe in 1972 and the United States in 1978, which were in
general agreement.
Note. — Details of the European studies are contained in Circular 120 —
Methodology for the Derivation of Separation Minima Applied to the
Spacing between Parallel Tracks in ATS Route Structures.
1.2 In applying the guidance material in 3 and 4, it should be recognized that the data
on which it is based are generally representative of navigation using VOR
meeting the full requirements of Doc 8071 —Manual on Testing of Radio
Navigation Aids, Volume I. Any additional factors, such as those due to
particular operational requirements, frequency of aircraft passings or information
available regarding the actual track-keeping performance of aircraft within a given
portion of airspace should be taken into account.
1.3 Attention is also invited to the basic assumptions in 4.2 and to the fact that the
values given in 4.1 represent a conservative approach. Before applying these
values, account should therefore be taken of any practical experience gained in the
airspace under consideration, as well as the possibility of achieving
improvements in the overall navigation performance of aircraft.
1.4 States are encouraged to keep ICAO fully informed of the results of the
application of this guidance material.
2. Determination of VOR system performance values
The large variability of the values which are likely to be associated with each of
the factors that make up the total VOR system, and the limitation of presently
available methods to measure all these effects individually with the required
precision, have led to the conclusion that an assessment of the total system error
provides a more realistic method for determining the VOR system performance.
The material contained in 3 and 4 should be applied only after study of Circular
120 especially with respect to the environmental conditions.
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Note. — Guidance material on overall VOR system accuracy is also
contained in Annex 10, Volume I, Attachment C.
3. Determination of protected airspace along VOR-defined routes
Note 1. — The material of this section has not been derived by means of
the collision-risk/target level of safety method.
Note 2.— The word “containment” as used in this section is intended to
indicate that the protected airspace provided will contain the traffic for 95
per cent of the total flying time (i.e. accumulated over all aircraft) for which
the traffic operates along the route in question. Where, for example 95 per
cent containment is provided, it is implicit that for 5 per cent of the total
flying time traffic will be outside the protected airspace. It is not possible to
quantify the maximum distance which such traffic is likely to deviate
beyond the protected airspace.
3.1 For VOR-defined routes where radar or ADS-B is not used to assist aircraft in
remaining within the protected airspace, the following guidance is provided.
However, when the lateral deviations of aircraft are being controlled with the aid
of radar or ADS -B monitoring, the size of the protected airspace required may
be reduced, as indicated by practical experience gained in the airspace under
consideration.
3.2 As a minimum, protection against activity in airspace adjacent to the routes
should provide 95 per cent containment.
3.3 The work described in Circular 120 indicates that a VOR system performance
based on the probability of 95 per cent containment would require the following
protected airspace around the centre line of the route to allow for possible
deviations:
— VOR routes with 93 km (50 NM) or less between VORs: ±7.4 km (4 NM);
— VOR routes with up to 278 km (150 NM) between VORs: ±7.4 km (4 NM) up
to 46 km (25 NM) from the VOR then expanding protected airspace up to
±11.1 km (6 NM) at 139 km (75 NM) from the VOR.
Figure A-1
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3.4 If the appropriate ATS authority considers that a better protection is required, e.g.
because of the proximity of prohibited, restricted or danger areas, climb or descent
paths of military aircraft, etc., it may decide that a higher level of containment
should be provided. For delineating the protected airspace the following values
should then be used:
— for segments with 93 km (50 NM) or less between VORs, use the values in line
A of the table below;
— for segments with more than 93 km (50 NM) and less than 278 km (150 NM)
between the VORs use the values given in line A of the table up to 46 km (25
NM), then expand linearly to the value given in line B at 139 km (75 NM)
from the VOR.
Percentage containment
95 96 97 98 99 99.5
A (km) ±7.4 ±7.4 ±8.3 ±9.3 ±10.2 ±11.1
NM ±4.0 ±4.0 ±4.5 ±5.0 ±5.5 ±6.0
B (km) ±11.1 ±11.1 ±12.0 ±12.0 ±13.0 ±15.7
(NM) ±6.0 ±6.0 ±6.5 ±6.5 ±7.0 ±8.5
For example, the protected area for a route of 222 km (120 NM) between VORs
and for which 99.5 per cent containment is required should have the following
shape:
Figure A-2
3.5 If two segments of a VOR-defined ATS route intersect at an angle of more than 25
degrees, additional protected airspace should be provided on the outside of the turn
and also on the inside of the turn as necessary. This additional space is to act as a
buffer for increased lateral displacement of aircraft, observed in practice, during
changes of direction exceeding 25 degrees. The amount of airspace added varies
with the angle of intersection. The greater the angle, the greater the additional
airspace to
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be used. Guidance is provided for protected airspace required at turns of no more
than 90 degrees. For the exceptional circumstances which require an ATS route
with a turn of more than 90 degrees, States should ensure that adequate protected
airspace is provided on both the inside and outside of such turns.
3.6 The following examples have been synthesized from the practices of two States
which use templates to facilitate the diagramming of airspace for planning
purposes. Design of the turning area templates took into account factors such as
aircraft speed, bank angle in turns, probable wind velocity, position errors, pilot
delays and an intercept angle of at least 30 degrees to achieve the new track, and
provides at least 95 per cent containment.
3.7 A template was used to establish the additional airspace required on the outside
of turns to contain aircraft executing turns of 30, 45, 60, 75 and 90 degrees. The
simplified figures below represent the outer limits of this airspace with the fairing
curves removed to allow easy construction. In each case, the additional airspace
is shown for aircraft flying in the direction of the large arrow. Where routes are
used in both directions, the same additional airspace should be provided on the
other outside boundary.
3.8 Figure A-3 illustrates the application of two segments intersecting at a VOR, at
an angle of 60 degrees.
Figure A-3
3.9 Figure A-4 illustrates the application for two segments meeting at a VOR
intersection at an angle of 60 degrees beyond the point where boundary splay is
required in order to comply with 3.3 and Figure A-1.
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Figure A-4
3.10 The following table outlines the distances to be used in sample cases when
providing additional protected airspace for route segments at and below FL 450,
intersecting at a VOR or meeting at a VOR intersection not more than 139 km (75
NM) from each VOR.
Note. — Refer to Figures A-3 and A-4.
Angle of
30° 45° 60° 75° 90°
intersection
VOR
*Distance “A”
(km) 5 9 13 17 21
(NM) 3 5 7 9 11
*Distance “B”
(km) 46 62 73 86 92
(NM) 25 34 40 46 50
Intersection
*Distance “A”
(km) 7 11 17 23 29
(NM) 4 6 9 13 16
*Distance “B”
(km) 66 76 88 103 111
(NM) 36 41 48 56 60
* Distances are rounded up to the next whole kilometer/nautical mile.
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Note.—For behaviour of aircraft at turns, see Circular 120, 4.4.
3.11 Figure A-5 illustrates a method to construct the required additional protected
airspace on the inside of turns for turns of 90 degrees or less: Locate a point on
the airway centre line, equal to the radius of turn plus the along-track tolerance
prior to the nominal turning point. From this point, drop a perpendicular line to
intersect the edge of the airway on the inside of the turn. From this point on the
inner edge of the airway, construct a line to intersect the airway centre line
beyond the turn at an angle of half of the angle of turn. The resulting triangle on
the inside of the turn depicts the additional airspace which should be protected for
the change of direction. For any turn of 90 degrees or less, the extra space on the
inside will serve for aircraft approaching the turn from either direction.
Note 1. — Criteria for the calculation of the along-track tolerance are contained
in PANS-OPS (Doc 8168), Volume II, Part III, Appendix to Chapter 31.
Note 2. — Guidance on the calculation of radius of turn is provided in Section 7.
Figure A-5
3.12 For turns at VOR intersections, the principles of construction for extra airspace
on the inside of a turn as described in 3.11 can be applied. Depending on the
distance of the intersection from one or both VORs, one or both airways may have
a splay at the intersection. Depending upon the situation, the extra airspace may be
inside, partially inside, or outside of the 95 per cent containment. If the route is
used in both directions, the construction should be completed separately for each
direction.
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3.13 Measured data for routes longer than 278 km (150 NM) between VORs are not
yet available. To determine protected airspace beyond 139 km (75 NM) from the
VOR, the use of an angular value of the order of 5 degrees as representing the
probable system performance would appear satisfactory. The following figure
illustrates this application.
Figure A-6
4. Spacing of parallel routes defined by VORs
Note. — The material of this section has been derived from measured data using the
collision-risk/target level of safety method.
4.1 The collision risk calculation, performed with the data of the European study
mentioned in 1.1 indicates that, in the type of environment investigated, the distance
between route centre lines (S in Figure A-7) for distances between VORs of278 km (150
NM) or less should normally be a minimum of:
a) 33.3 km (18 NM) for parallel routes where the aircraft on the routes fly in
opposite direction; and
b) 30.6 km (16.5 NM) for parallel routes where the aircraft on the two routes
fly in the same direction.
Figure A-7
Note. — Two route segments are considered parallel when:
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— they have about the same orientation, i.e. the angular difference does not
exceed 10 degrees;
— they are not intersecting, i.e. another form of separation must exist at a
defined distance from the intersection;
— traffic on each route is independent of traffic on the other route, i.e. it does
not lead to restrictions on the other route.
4.2 This spacing of parallel routes assumes:
a) aircraft may either during climb or descent or during level flight be at the
same flight levels on the two routes;
b) traffic densities of 25 000 to 50 000 flights per busy two-month period;
c) VOR transmissions which are regularly flight checked in accordance with
Doc 8071 — Manual on Testing of Radio Navigation Aids, Volume I, and
have been found to be satisfactory in accordance with the procedures in that
document for navigational purposes on the defined routes; and
d) no real-time radar or ADS-B monitoring or control of the lateral
deviations is exercised.
4.3 Preliminary work indicates that, in the circumstances described in a) to c) below, it
may be possible to reduce the minimum distance between routes. However, the figures
given have not been precisely calculated and in each case a detailed study of the particular
circumstances is essential:
a) if the aircraft on adjacent routes are not assigned the same flight levels, the
distance between the routes maybe reduced; the magnitude of the reduction will
depend on the vertical separation between aircraft on the adjacent tracks and on
the percentage of climbing and descending traffic, but is not likely to be more
than5.6 km (3 NM);
b) if the traffic characteristics differ significantly from those contained in Circular
120, the minima contained in4.1 may require adjustment. For example, for traffic
densities of about 10 000 flights per busy two-month period a reduction of 900 to
1 850 m (0.5 to 1.0 NM)may be possible;
c) the relative locations of the VORs defining the two tracks and the distance between
the VORs will have an effect on the spacing, but this has not been quantified.
4.4 Application of radar or ADS-B monitoring and control of the lateral deviations of the
aircraft may have a large effect on the minimum allowable distance between routes.
Studies on the effect of radar monitoring indicate that:
— further work is necessary before a fully satisfactory mathematical model can
be developed;
— any reduction of separation is closely related to:
– traffic (volume, characteristics);
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– r coverage and data processing, availability of an automatic
alarm;
– monitoring continuity;
– sector workload; and
– radiotelephony quality.
According to these studies and taking into account the experience some States have
accumulated over many years with parallel route systems under continuous radar control,
it can be expected that a reduction to the order of 15 to 18.5 km (8 to 10 NM), but most
probably not less than 13 km (7 NM), may be possible as long as radar monitoring
workload is not increased substantially by that reduction. Actual operations of such systems
using reduced lateral spacing have shown that:
— it is very important to define and publish change-over points (see also 6);
— large turns should be avoided when possible; and
— where large turns cannot be avoided, required turn profiles should be defined
for turns larger than 20degrees.
Even where the probability of total radar or ADS-B failure is very small, procedures to
cover that case should be considered.
5. Spacing of adjacent VOR-defined routes that are not parallel
Note 1. — The material of this section is intended to provide guidance for situations where
non-intersecting VOR-defined routes are adjacent and have an angular difference
exceeding10 degrees.
Note 2. — The material of this section has not been derived by means of the collision-
risk/target level of safety method.
5.1 For adjacent non-intersecting VOR-defined routes that are not parallel, the collision-
risk/target level of safety method is not, at its present state of development, fully
appropriate. For this reason use should be made of the material in 3.
5.2 The protected airspace between such routes should not be less than that which will
provide, without overlap, the99.5 per cent containment values given in the table in 3.4 (see
example in Figure A-8).
5.3 Where there is an angular difference of more than25 degrees between route segments,
additional protected airspace, as indicated in 3.5 to 3.10, should be provided.
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Figure A-8
6. Change-over points for VORs
6.1 When considering the establishment of points for changeover from one VOR to
another for primary navigational guidance on VOR-defined ATS routes, States should bear
in mind that:
a) the establishment of change-over points should be made on the basis of
performance of the VOR stations concerned, including an evaluation of the
interference protection criteria. The process should be verified by flight checking
(see Doc 8071, Volume I, Part II);
b) where frequency protection is critical, flight inspection should be undertaken at
the highest altitudes to which the facility is protected.
6.2 Nothing in 6.1 should be interpreted as placing a restriction on the service ranges of
VOR installations meeting the specifications in Annex 10, Volume I, 3.3.
7. Calculation of radius of turn
7.1 The method used to calculate turn radii and the turn radii indicated below are
applicable to aircraft performing a constant radius turn. The material has been derived
from the turn performance criteria developed for RNP 1 ATS routes and can be used in
the construction of the required additional protected airspace on the inside of turns also
for ATS routes other than those defined by VOR.
7.2 Turn performance is dependent on two parameters —ground speed and bank angle.
Due to the effect of the wind component changing with the change of heading, the
groundspeed and hence bank angle will change during a constant radius turn. However,
for turns not greater than approximately90 degrees and for
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the speed values considered below, the following formula can be used to calculate the
achievable constant radius of turn, where the ground speed is the sum of the true airspeed
and the wind speed:
Radius of turn = (Ground speed)2
Constant ‘G’ * TAN (bank angle)
7.3 The greater the ground speed, the greater will be the required bank angle. To ensure
that the turn radius is representative for all foreseeable conditions, it is necessary to
consider extreme parameters. A true airspeed of 1 020 km/h (550 kt) is considered
probably the greatest to be encountered in the upper levels. Combined with maximum
anticipated wind speeds in the medium and upper flight levels of 370 km/h (200 kt) [99.5
per cent values based on meteorological data], a maximum ground speed of 1 400 km/h
(750 kt) should be considered. Maximum bank angle is very much a function of individual
aircraft. Aircraft with high wing loadings flying at or near their maximum flight level are
highly intolerant of extreme angles. Most transport aircraft are certified to fly no slower
than 1.3 times their stall speed for any given configuration. Because the stall speed rises
with TAN (bank angle), many operators try not to cruise below 1.4 times the stall speed to
protect against gusts or turbulence. For the same reason, many transport aircraft fly at
reduced maximum angles of bank in cruise conditions. Hence, it can be assumed that the
highest bank angle which can be tolerated by all aircraft types is in the order of 20 degrees.
7.4 By calculation, the radius of turn of an aircraft flying at 1 400 km/h (750 kt) ground
speed, with a bank angle of20 degrees, is 22.51 NM (41.69 km). For purposes of
expediency, this has been reduced to 22.5 NM (41.6 km).Following the same logic for the
lower airspace, it is considered that up to FL 200 (6 100 m) the maximum figures to be
encountered are a true airspeed of 740 km/h (400 kt),with a tailwind of 370 km/h (200
kt). Keeping the maximum bank angle of 20 degrees, and following the same formula,
the turn would be defined along a radius of 14.45 NM (26.76 km).For expediency, this
figure may be rounded up to 15 NM(27.8 km).
7.5 Given the above, the most logical break point between the two ground speed
conditions is between FL 190(5 800 m) and FL 200 (6 100 m). In order to encompass the
range of turn anticipation algorithms used in current flight management systems (FMS)
under all foreseeable conditions, the turn radius at FL 200 and above should be defined
as22.5 NM (41.6 km) and at FL 190 and below as 15 NM(27.8 km).
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ATTACHMENT B.
TRAFFIC INFORMATION BROADCASTS BYAIRCRAFT (TIBA) AND
RELATED OPERATING PROCEDURES
(See Chapter 4, 4.2.2, Note 2)
1. Introduction and applicability of broadcasts
1.1 Traffic information broadcasts by aircraft are intended to permit reports and relevant
supplementary information of an advisory nature to be transmitted by pilots on a
designated VHF radiotelephone (RTF) frequency for the information of pilots of
other aircraft in the vicinity.
1.2 TIBAs should be introduced only when necessary and as a temporary measure.
1.3 The broadcast procedures should be applied in designated airspace where:
a) there is a need to supplement collision hazard information provided by air traffic
services outside controlled airspace; or
b) there is a temporary disruption of normal air traffic services.
1.4 Such airspaces should be identified by the States responsible for provision of air
traffic services within these airspaces, if necessary with the assistance of the
appropriate ICAO Regional Office(s), and duly promulgated in aero- nautical
information publications or NOTAM, together with the VHF RTF frequency, the
message formats and the procedures to be used. Where, in the case of 1.3 a), more
than one State is involved, the airspace should be designated on the basis of regional
air navigation agreements and promulgated in Doc 7030.
1.5 When establishing a designated airspace, dates for the review of its applicability at
intervals not exceeding 12 months should be agreed by the appropriate ATS
authority(ies).
2Details of broadcasts
2.1 VHF RTF frequency to be used
2.1.1 The VHF RTF frequency to be used should be determined and promulgated on a
regional basis. However, in the case of temporary disruption occurring in
controlled airspace, the States responsible may promulgate, as the VHFRTF
frequency to be used within the limits of that airspace, a frequency used normally
for the provision of air traffic control service within that airspace.
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2.1.2 Where VHF is used for air-ground communications with ATS and an aircraft has
only two serviceable VHF sets, one should be tuned to the appropriate ATS
frequency and the other to the TIBA frequency.
2.2 Listening watch
A listening watch should be maintained on the TIBA frequency 10 minutes before
entering the designated airspace until leaving this airspace. For an aircraft taking off
from an aerodrome located within the lateral limits of the designated airspace
listening watch should start as soon as appropriate after take-off and be maintained
until leaving the airspace.
2.3 Time of broadcasts
A broadcast should be made:
a) 10 minutes before entering the designated airspace or, for a pilot taking off from
an aerodrome located within the lateral limits of the designated airspace, as soon
as appropriate after take-off;
b) 10 minutes prior to crossing a reporting point;
c) 10 minutes prior to crossing or joining an ATS route;
d) at 20-minute intervals between distant reporting points;
e) 2 to 5 minutes, where possible, before a change in flight level;
f) at the time of a change in flight level; and
g) at any other time considered necessary by the pilot.
2.4 Forms of broadcast
2.4.1 The broadcasts other than those indicating changes in flight level, i.e. the
broadcasts referred to in 2.3 a), b), c),d) and g), should be in the following form:
ALL STATIONS (necessary to identify a traffic information broadcast) (call
sign)
FLIGHT LEVEL (number) (or CLIMBING* TO FLIGHTLEVEL (number))
(direction)
(ATS route) (or DIRECT FROM (position) TO (position))POSITION
(position**) AT (time)
ESTIMATING (next reporting point, or the point of crossing or joining a
designated ATS route) AT (time)
(call sign)
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FLIGHT LEVEL (number)
(direction)
Fictitious example:
“ALL STATIONS WINDAR 671 FLIGHT LEVEL 350NORTHWEST BOUND
DIRECT FROM PUNTA SAGA TOPAMPA POSITION 5040 SOUTH 2010
EAST AT 2358ESTIMATING CROSSING ROUTE LIMA THREE ONE
AT4930 SOUTH 1920 EAST AT 0012 WINDAR 671 FLIGHTLEVEL 350
NORTHWEST BOUND OUT”
2.4.2 Before a change in flight level, the broadcast(referred to in 2.3 e)) should be in the
following form:
ALL STATIONS
(call sign)
(direction)
(ATS route) (or DIRECT FROM (position) TO (position))
LEAVING FLIGHT LEVEL (number) FOR FLIGHT LEVEL (number) AT
(position and time)
2.4.3 Except as provided in 2.4.4, the broadcast at the time of a change in flight level
(referred to in 2.3 f)) should be in the following form:
ALL STATIONS
(call sign)
(direction)
(ATS route) (or DIRECT FROM (position) TO (position))
LEAVING FLIGHT LEVEL (number) NOW FOR FLIGHTLEVEL
(number)followed by:
ALL STATIONS
(call sign)
MAINTAINING FLIGHT LEVEL (number)
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2.4.4 Broadcasts reporting a temporary flight level change to avoid an imminent collision
risk should be in the following form:
ALL STATIONS
(call sign)
LEAVING FLIGHT LEVEL (number) NOW FOR FLIGHTLEVEL (number)
followed as soon as practicable by:
ALL STATIONS
(call sign)
RETURNING TO FLIGHT LEVEL (number) NOW
2.5 Acknowledgement of the broadcasts
The broadcasts should not be acknowledged unless a potential collision risk is
perceived.
3. Related operating procedures
3.1 Changes of cruising level
3.1.1 Cruising level changes should not be made within the designated airspace, unless
considered necessary by pilots to avoid traffic conflicts, for weather avoidance or
for other valid operational reasons.
* For the broadcast referred to in 2.3 a) in the case of an aircraft taking off from an
aerodrome located within the lateral limits of the designated airspace.
** For broadcasts made when the aircraft is not near an ATS significant point, the position
should be given as accurately as possible and in any case to the nearest 30 minutes of
latitude and longitude.
3.1.2 When cruising level changes are unavoidable, all available aircraft lighting which
would improve the visual detection of the aircraft should be displayed while
changing levels.
3.2 Collision avoidance
If, on receipt of a traffic information broadcast from another aircraft, a pilot decides
that immediate action is necessary to avoid an imminent collision risk, and this
cannot be achieved in accordance with the right-of-way provisions of Annex 2,
the pilot should:
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a) unless an alternative manoeuvre appears more appropriate, immediately descend
150 m (500 ft), or 300 m (1 000 ft)if above FL 290 in an area where a vertical
separation minimum of 600 m (2 000 ft) is applied;
b) display all available aircraft lighting which would improve the visual detection of
the aircraft;
c) as soon as possible, reply to the broadcast advising action being taken;
d) notify the action taken on the appropriate ATS frequency; and
e) as soon as practicable, resume normal flight level, notifying the action on the
appropriate ATS frequency.
3.3 Normal position reporting procedures
Normal position reporting procedures should be continued at all times, regardless
of any action taken to initiate or acknowledge a traffic information broadcast.
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ATTACHMENT C.
MATERIAL RELATING TO CONTINGENCY PLANNING
(see 2.31)
1. Introduction
1.1 Guidelines for contingency measures for application in the event of disruptions of air
traffic services and related supporting services were first approved by the Council
on27 June 1984 in response to Assembly Resolution A23-12, following a study by the
Air Navigation Commission and consultation with States and international
organizations concerned, as required by the Resolution. The guidelines were
subsequently amended and amplified in the light of experience gained with the
application of contingency measures in various parts of the world and in differing
circumstances.
1.2 The purpose of the guidelines is to assist in providing for the safe and orderly flow of
international air traffic in the event of disruptions of air traffic services and related
supporting services and in preserving the availability of major world air routes within
the air transportation system in such circumstances.
1.3 The guidelines have been developed in recognition of the fact that circumstances
before and during events causing disruptions of services to international civil aviation
vary widely and that contingency measures, including access to designated
aerodromes for humanitarian reasons, in response to specific events and
circumstances must be adapted to these circumstances. They set forth the allocation
of responsibility among States and ICAO for the conduct of contingency planning
and the measures to be taken into consideration in developing, applying and
terminating the application of such plans.
1.4 The guidelines are based on experience which has shown, inter alia, that the effects of
disruption of services in particular portions of airspace are likely to affect significantly
the services in adjacent airspace, thereby creating a requirement for international
coordination, with the assistance of ICAO as appropriate. Hence, the role of ICAO in
the field of contingency planning and coordination of such plans is described in the
guidelines. They also reflect the experience that ICAO’s role in contingency planning
must be global and not limited to airspace over the high seas and areas of undetermined
sovereignty, if the availability of major world air routes within the air transportation
system is to be preserved. Finally, they further reflect the fact that international
organizations concerned, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA)
and the International Federation of Airline Pilots’ Associations (IFALPA), are
valuable advisers on the practicability of overall plans and elements of such plans.
2Status of contingency plans
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Contingency plans are intended to provide alternative facilities and services to those
provided for in the regional air navigation plan when those facilities and services are
temporarily not available. Contingency arrangements are therefore temporary in
nature, remain in effect only until the services and facilities of the regional air
navigation plan are reactivated and, accordingly, do not constitute amendments to the
regional plan requiring processing in accordance with the “Procedure for the
Amendment of Approved Regional Plans”. Instead, in cases where the contingency
plan would temporarily deviate from the approved regional air navigation plan, such
deviations are approved, as necessary, by the President of the ICAO Council on
behalf of the Council.
3Responsibility for developing, promulgating and implementing contingency plans
3.1 The State(s) responsible for providing air traffic services and related supporting
services in particular portions of airspace is (are) also responsible, in the event of
disruption or potential disruption of these services, for instituting measures to ensure
the safety of international civil aviation operations and, where possible, for making
provisions for alternative facilities and services. To that end the State(s) should
develop, promulgate and implement appropriate contingency plans. Such plans
should be developed in consultation with other States and airspace users concerned
and with ICAO, as appropriate, whenever the effects of the service disruption(s) are
likely to affect the services in adjacent airspace.
3.2 The responsibility for appropriate contingency action in respect of airspace over the
high seas continues to rest with the State(s) normally responsible for providing the
services until, and unless, that responsibility is temporarily reassigned by ICAO to
(an) other State(s).
3.3 Similarly, the responsibility for appropriate contingency action in respect of airspace
where the responsibility for providing the services has been delegated by another
State continues to rest with the State providing the services until, and unless, the
delegating State terminates temporarily the delegation. Upon termination, the
delegating State assumes responsibility for appropriate contingency action.
3.4 ICAO will initiate and coordinate appropriate contingency action in the event of
disruption of air traffic services and related supporting services affecting international
civil aviation operations provided by a State wherein, for some reason, the authorities
cannot adequately discharge the responsibility referred to in 3.1. In such
circumstances, ICAO will work in coordination with States responsible for airspace
adjacent to that affected by the disruption and in close consultation with international
organizations concerned. ICAO will
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also initiate and coordinate appropriate contingency action at the request of States.
4Preparatory action
4.1 Time is essential in contingency planning if hazards to air navigation are to be
reasonably prevented. Timely introduction of contingency arrangements requires
decisive initiative and action, which again presupposes that contingency plans have,
as far as practicable, been completed and agreed among the parties concerned before
the occurrence of the event requiring contingency action, including the manner and
timing of promulgating such arrangements.
4.2 For the reasons given in 4.1, States should take preparatory action, as appropriate, for
facilitating timely introduction of contingency arrangements. Such preparatory action
should include:
a) preparation of general contingency plans for introduction in respect of generally
foreseeable events such as industrial action or labour unrest affecting the provision
of air traffic services and/or supporting services. In recognition of the fact that the
world aviation community is not party to such disputes, States providing services
in airspace over the high seas or of undetermined sovereignty should take
appropriate action to ensure that adequate air traffic services will continue to be
provided to international civil aviation operations in non-sovereign airspace. For
the same reason, States providing air traffic services in their own airspace or, by
delegation, in the airspace of(an)other State(s) should take appropriate action to
ensure that adequate air traffic services will continue to be provided to
international civil aviation operations concerned, which do not involve landing or
take-off in the State(s) affected by industrial action;
b) assessment of risk to civil air traffic due to military conflict or acts of unlawful
interference with civil aviation as well as a review of the likelihood and possible
consequences of natural disasters or public health emergencies. Preparatory action
should include initial development of special contingency plans in respect of
natural disasters, public health emergencies, military conflicts or acts of unlawful
interference with civil aviation that are likely to affect the availability of airspace
e for civil aircraft operations and/or the provision of air traffic services and
supporting services. It should be recognized that avoidance of particular portions
of airspace short notice will require special efforts by States responsible for
adjacent portions of airspace and by international aircraft operators with regard to
planning of alternative routings and services, and the air traffic services authorities
of States should therefore, as far as practicable, endeavour to anticipate the need
for such alternative actions;
c) monitoring of any developments that might lead to events requiring contingency
arrangements to be developed and applied. States should
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consider designating persons/administrative units to undertake such monitoring
and, when necessary, to initiate effective follow-up action; and
d) designation/ establishment of a central agency which, in the event of disruption of
air traffic services and introduction of contingency arrangements, would be able
to provide, 24 hours a day, up-to-date information on the situation and associated
contingency measures until the system has returned to normal. A coordinating
team should be designated within, or in association with, such a central agency
for the purpose of coordinating activities during the disruption.
4.3 ICAO will be available for monitoring developments that might lead to events
requiring contingency arrangements to be developed and applied and will, as
necessary, assist in the development and application of such arrangements. During the
emergence of a potential crisis, a coordinating team will be established in the
Regional Office(s) concerned and at ICAO Headquarters in Montreal, and
arrangements will be made for competent staff to be available or reachable 24 hours
a day. The tasks of these teams will be to monitor continuously information from all
relevant sources, to arrange for the constant supply of relevant information received
by the State aeronautical information service at the location of the Regional Office
and Headquarters, to liaise with international organizations concerned and their
regional organizations, as appropriate, and to exchange up-to-date information with
States directly concerned and States which are potential participants in contingency
arrangements. Upon analysis of all available data, authority for initiating the action
considered necessary in the circumstances will be obtained from the State(s)
concerned.
5Coordination
5.1 A contingency plan should be acceptable to providers and users of contingency
services alike, i.e. in terms of the ability of the providers to discharge the functions
assigned to them and in terms of safety of operations and traffic handling capacity
provided by the plan in the circumstances.
5.2 Accordingly, States which anticipate or experience disruption of air traffic services
and/or related supporting services should advise, as early as practicable, the ICAO
Regional Office accredited to them, and other States whose services might be
affected. Such advice should include information on associated contingency measures
or a request for assistance in formulating contingency plans.
5.3 Detailed coordination requirements should be determined by States and/or ICAO, as
appropriate, keeping the above in mind. In the case of contingency arrangements not
appreciably affecting airspace users or service provided outside the airspace of the
(single) State involved, coordination requirements are naturally few or non-existent.
Such cases are believed to be few.
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5.4 In the case of multi-State ventures, detailed coordination leading to formal agreement
of the emerging contingency plan should be undertaken with each State which is to
participate. Such detailed coordination should also be under- taken with those States
whose services will be significantly affected, for example by re-routing of traffic, and
with international organizations concerned who provide invaluable operational
insight and experience.
5.5 Whenever necessary to ensure orderly transition to contingency arrangements, the
coordination referred to in this section should include agreement on a detailed,
common NOTAM text to be promulgated at a commonly agreed effective date.
6. Development, promulgation and application of contingency plans
6.1 Development of a sound contingency plan is dependent upon circumstances, including
the availability, or not, of the airspace affected by the disruptive circumstances for
use by international civil aviation operations. Sovereign airspace can be used only on
the initiative of, or with the agreement or consent of, the authorities of the State
concerned regarding such use. Otherwise, the contingency arrangements must involve
bypassing the airspace and should be developed by adjacent States or by ICAO in
cooperation with such adjacent States. In the case of airspace over the high seas or of
undetermined sovereignty, development of the contingency plan might involve,
depending upon circumstances, including the degree of erosion of the alternative
services offered, temporary reassignment by ICAO of the responsibility for providing
air traffic services in the airspace concerned.
6.2 Development of a contingency plan presupposes as much information as possible on
current and alternative routes, navigational capability of aircraft and availability or
partial availability of navigational guidance from ground- based aids, surveillance
and communications capability of adjacent air traffic services units, volume and types
of aircraft to be accommodated and the actual status of the air traffic services,
communications, meteorological and aeronautical information services. Following
are the main elements to be considered for contingency planning depending upon
circumstances:
a) re-routing of traffic to avoid the whole or part of the airspace concerned, normally
involving establishment of additional routes or route segments with associated
conditions for their use;
b) establishment of a simplified route network through the airspace concerned, if it
is available, together with a flight level allocation scheme to ensure lateral and
vertical separation, and a procedure for adjacent area control centres to establish
longitudinal separation at the entry point and to maintain such separation through
the airspace;
c) reassignment of responsibility for providing air traffic services in airspace over
the high seas or in delegated airspace;
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d) provision and operation of adequate air-ground communications, AFTN and ATS
direct speech links, including reassignment, to adjacent States, of the
responsibility for providing meteorological information and information on status
of navigation aids;
e) special arrangements for collecting and disseminating in-flight and post- flight
reports from aircraft;
f) a requirement for aircraft to maintain continuous listening watch on a specified
pilot-pilot VHF frequency in specified areas where air-ground communications
are uncertain or non-existent and to broadcast on that frequency, preferably in
English, position information and estimates, including start and completion of
climb and descent;
g) a requirement for all aircraft in specified areas to display navigation and anti-
collision lights at all times;
h) a requirement and procedures for aircraft to maintain an increased longitudinal
separation that may be established between aircraft at the same cruising level;
i) a requirement for climbing and descending well to the right of the centre line of
specifically identified routes;
j) establishment of arrangements for controlled access to the contingency area to
prevent overloading of the contingency system; and
k) a requirement for all operations in the contingency area to be conducted in
accordance with IFR, including allocation of IFR flight levels, from the relevant
Table of Cruising Levels in Appendix 3 of Annex 2, to ATS routes in the area.
6.3 Notification, by NOTAM, of anticipated or actual disruption of air traffic services
and/or related supporting services should be dispatched to users of air navigation
services as early as practicable. The NOTAM should include the associated
contingency arrangements. In the case of foreseeable disruption, the advance notice
should in any case not be less than 48 hours.
6.4 Notification by NOTAM of discontinuance of contingency measures and reactivation
of the services set forth in the regional air navigation plan should be dispatched as
early as practicable to ensure an orderly transfer from contingency conditions to
normal conditions.
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