Background: Airspace "C" in the Berlin area
Airspace "C" is a controlled airspace category that extends in Germany primarily around busy airports and their approach and departure routes. In the Berlin region, this airspace plays a central role in controlling air traffic for the major commercial airports and ensures that instrument flight rules (IFR) are properly observed. The clear separation between controlled and uncontrolled airspace and strict compliance with altitude and clearance restrictions are essential here to ensure safe and efficient traffic management.
The increase in unauthorised flights and their consequences
DFS has noticed that there has recently been an increase in airspace violations in area "C" around Berlin. These incidents, in which pilots enter controlled airspace without the required clearance, not only jeopardise the safety of air traffic, but also cause considerable disruption to air traffic management as a whole.
Unauthorised entry into airspace "C" can lead to conflicts with commercial aircraft operating on IFR flight plans. Such incidents usually require immediate action by air traffic control to avoid collisions, which significantly increases the workload of air traffic controllers and jeopardises the safety of all parties involved.
DFS measures: education and prevention
In order to better inform pilots and prevent such violations in the future, DFS has prepared special information material for the affected regions of Schönhagen and Strausberg. These materials contain detailed instructions on navigation and airspace compliance, especially for pilots flying in these heavily frequented airspace sections.
The new flyers, which DFS has attached to its bulletins, provide a clear overview of the most important regulations and requirements for flights in the vicinity of these areas. They highlight the critical areas where special care is required and provide tips on how to avoid airspace violations. Pilots are strongly advised to study this information carefully and include it in their flight preparations.
Recommendations for pilots
Pilots flying in the Berlin region should always ensure that they are fully aware of the current airspace structures and the associated regulations. Thorough planning should be carried out before each flight, taking particular account of altitude restrictions and the need for clearance to enter airspace "C".
Special emphasis should be placed on the use of up-to-date aeronautical charts and GPS devices to ensure accurate positioning. In addition, constant radio communication with air traffic control is essential in order to be able to react quickly in the event of a possible airspace violation.
Conclusion: Responsibility of the pilots
Compliance with the airspace regulations in Berlin airspace "C" is not only a legal obligation, but also a matter of safety for all participants in air traffic. DFS appeals to all pilots to fulfil their responsibility and strictly adhere to the prescribed procedures and clearances. With the new information material, DFS offers valuable support to ensure that every flight in the Berlin region can be conducted safely and in compliance with the regulations.
The documents provided for Schönhagen and Strausberg are important tools to help pilots familiarise themselves with the specific requirements of these areas. Pilots should use these resources to increase their flight safety and avoid unpleasant legal consequences.
Source references:
Strausberg
