20 August 2013
The UK CAA has announced the introduction of the first Radio Mandatory Zone (RMZ) in UK airspace at Blackpool Airport. This temporary airspace change will be put in place to cover the replacement of the airport’s radar and will run from 27 August to 23 September 2013.
An RMZ allows the CAA to provide an airport with increased protection for its flights without the need to introduce new controlled airspace or place unreasonable demands on airspace users. Ordinarily to gain a RMZ an airport or air traffic control unit will need to develop an airspace change proposal that includes consultation with airspace users. However, in this case it is to address a short-term requirement that might otherwise be addressed by a temporary restriction of flying or in some cases a TMZ.
To gain entry to a RMZ a pilot must establish two-way communication with air traffic control before entering the RMZ and then remain on frequency while in the zone unless instructed otherwise*.
Phil Roberts, CAA Head of Airspace, Air Traffic Management & Aerodromes, said, “When taking decisions on airspace requirements we are extremely conscious of making realistic, risk-based judgements based on safety and the demands of airspace users. Radio Mandatory Zones add to the range of options we have including Transponder Mandatory Zones and additional controlled airspace. But, importantly, they provide us with a flexible option to provide extra information to air traffic control without placing an undue burden on pilots. In doing so, they offer a solution in situations where flights need some protection but a TMZ or controlled airspace cannot be justified.”
A map showing the Blackpool RMZ can be downloaded <a href=’http://www.caa.co.uk/default.aspx?catid=7&pagetype=90&pageid=15073′ target=’_blank’>here.</a>
<a href=’http://www.caa.co.uk’ target=’_blank’>www.caa.co.uk</a>
