27 April 2007
The CAA is reminding pilots that they should be aware of Red Arrows displays this year. The reminder follows a number of incursions of Reds’ airspace in the past couple of years – 11 last year, of which three caused displays to be abandoned. If you’re the cause, you can expect a call from the CAA.
The information about Red Arrows displays is available in AIC Mauve 218 “Restrictions of Flying Regulations – Jet Formation Display Sites – May to July 2007”. Don’t forget that this AIC now uses the term RA(T) instead of TRA, but it is the same thing.
The AIC is on the AIS website (you’ll need to register – for free – and log in) at <a href=’http://www.ais.org.uk/aes/pubs/aip/pdf/aic/4M218.PDF’ target=’_blank’>www.ais.org.uk/aes/pubs/aip/pdf/aic/4M218.PDF</a>.
Flight Lieutenant Andy Robins, Red 10 in the display team, points out: “Obviously when we have to cancel the show it is very disappointing for the crowds who have paid to see the display but, far worse, the likelihood of a collision between intruders and nine fast jets is extremely high.”
Besides the websites there are a number of other ways of checking Red Arrows and other issues before flight:
<ul><li>dedicated freephone Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) information line on 0500 354 802.</li>
<li>Check NOTAMs (also on the AIS website) or contact the NOTAM Office on 020 8745 3451 or 3450 (24-hour facility)</li>
<li>Alternatively, check Pre-Flight Information Bulletins (PIBs) on the AIS website. PIB help is also available here. PIBs may also be accessed through the NATS website, <a href=’http://www.nats.co.uk’ target=’_blank’>www.nats.co.uk</a>, should the AIS website be unavailable</li>
<li>Read <b><i>FLYER</i></b>’s Hot Poop page, which carries as many details as we can cram in</li></ul>
