Background: What does "without air traffic services" mean?
Aerodromes without air traffic services (i.e. all "small" uncontrolled aerodromes) have neither air traffic controllers nor AFIS, but may only have an air traffic controller who is not authorised to give instructions. See also our article on this topic: https://pilot-hub.com/nfl-2024-1-3240-neue-richtlinien-fuer-den-flugfunk-an-unkontrollierten-flugplaetzen-mehr-sicherheit-durch-klare-kommunikation/.
Communication takes place exclusively between pilotswho have their Communicate positions and intentions by radio. The responsibility for Traffic observation and collision avoidance is entirely the responsibility of the pilots themselves.
New guidelines in practice: clarity through standardisation
The new guideline NfL 2024-1-3240 standardises phraseology and procedures in the aerodrome sector. The aim is to Uniform traffic behaviourwhich guarantees safety, especially in complex situations. The basis for action on the pitch is:
- The visual flight chart (AIP VFR),
- The valid SERA regulations (e.g. SERA.3210 for fallback regulation),
- and the German Air Traffic Regulations (§§ 22, 23 LuftVO).
A compact Practical guide in A5 format to take with you in the cockpit will be published on the AERO Friedrichshafen 2025 presented by the AOPA. There is also a A2 wall poster for clubs and aerodromes.
Central principles for operation without flight control
- Safety first: All movements (taxiing, take-off, landing) only if they are deemed safe.
- Communication: Position reports and intentions must be radioed clearly and in good time - even if nobody responds.
- Traffic situation: Situational awareness is created through consistent communication and observation.
- Independent separation: Separation from other aircraft is carried out under your own responsibility in accordance with visual flight rules.
Standard pitch round: set-up and communication
The aerodrome circuit is the key to orderly traffic. It consists of:
- Approach
- Cross approach
- Final approach
All manoeuvres should be performed on the prescribed Circuit height take place. The visual flight chart of the AIP VFR specifies the direction, altitude and special features. Turns should no more than 30° have a cross slope to avoid stalling.
Example of position reports:
- Approach in aerodrome circuit (10 NM away):
"Hintertupfing RADIO, Mooney D-EMOO, position 10 miles east, 1,500 ft, for landing runway 26." - Overflight for wind sighting:
"Hintertupfing RADIO, Mooney D-EMOO, overflight north to south at 3,000 ft." - Entry into the oncoming approach:
"... turn into the oncoming approach to runway 26, number 2." - Final approach:
"... turn into the final approach to runway 26, number 2, for landing." - After landing:
"... leave runway 26." - Take off:
"... take off."
Arrival and departure specialities
A central security risk is the "Overhead approach"i.e. the overflight of the airfield to determine the landing direction. Due to the frequent winch operation In Germany, this procedure is expressly avoid. Instead, it is recommended to enter the aerodrome circuit from the opposite side of the circuit at a sufficient distance and height (e.g. via a waypoint).
Additional rules:
- Observe winch start flashing lights!
- No overtaking in the aerodrome circuit.
- Full circles are taboo! Only permitted outside the aerodrome circuit.
- Always take off parallel to the right of the pisteto keep an eye on other aircraft.
Departure procedure
Communication is also crucial at the start:
- Roll message:
"... taxi to the runway 26 taxiway stop" - Start registration:
"... take off, leave the aerodrome heading south" - Frequency change:
"... leave the frequency."
Before the start: Check the Take-off and approach sectors - Switch on the lights, check the windsock and traffic situation again if necessary.
Supplements for gliding
For mixed operations, a supplementary declaration is recommended for gliders:
"D-1234, approaching runway 26, position for landing."
This also signals to motorised pilots that a Landing-intensive gliding takes place.
Rules of behaviour for safe processes
AOPA emphasises ten simple but effective rules of conduct:
- Look out - Keep your eyes open, especially in the aerodrome.
- Use radio - Announce position and intentions in good time.
- Listen - Who is speaking and when? Which aircraft are approaching?
- Good flight preparation - Maps, NOTAMs, local procedures.
- Defensive flying - No risky manoeuvres.
- Keep to the course rounds - Heights, directions, reporting points.
- Lights on! - For better visibility in the surroundings.
- Know the right of first refusal - SERA.3210 sets the rules.
- Minimise distraction - Set up checklists and devices in advance.
- Noise avoidance - Climb with Vy, no unnecessary loops.
REACT - a mnemonic for safe flying
AOPA Germany recommends the acronym REACT as a memory aid:
- Radio - Follow radio closely
- Eyes - keep an eye out
- Announce - Report position and intentions
- Courtesy - show consideration
- Traffic Pattern - keep to the circuit and follow procedures
Conclusion: More responsibility - but also more security
The new regulations provide pilots at uncontrolled aerodromes with clear guidelines. Through Standardisation, clean communication and consideration can also be used without High level of security can be guaranteed. The information prepared by AOPA Germany, IG FoF and other institutions is a valuable contribution to aviation safety in practice.
Source references:
AOPA