Background and significance for general aviation
In Germany, many smaller airfields are currently tied to fixed operating hours with an operations manager. These times restrict non-commercial air traffic in particular, as take-offs and landings outside of regular opening hours are only possible in exceptional cases. With the introduction of "flying without an operations manager", Heide-Büsum is now responding to the growing demand from private pilots for more flexible utilisation times.
The concept is not entirely new: there is already experience with this model in other federal states, such as Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Under certain conditions, it allows airfields to be operated without the physical presence of an operations manager if no commercial flights are taking place. Schleswig-Holstein is now following suit - with Heide-Büsum as the first pioneer aerodrome.
New opening hours and procedures
With the changeover, private pilots will be able to use the airfield from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., depending on the limits of civil twilight. This means that significantly longer time slots are available for sightseeing flights, training flights or cross-country flights.
However, important framework conditions must be observed:
- Online registrationBefore each take-off or landing outside operating hours, pilots must register using a special PPR form.
- Obligation to report: Take-off and landing registrations should preferably be made via an online form or the app. airfield mobile be made. Alternatively, there is a mailbox at the tower building.
- Fee regulation: Payment can be made either via an aerodrome account, by aerops or by cash deposit at the tower.
- ExceptionsThe concept does not apply to night flights, parachute jumps and balloon launches.
An important note for users: outside of regular operating hours, the petrol station is not permanently staffed. However, pilots can request this for a fee if required.
Regular operating hours remain unchanged
The previous opening hours for the business with a manager will not change fundamentally. In summer, the opening hours will remain Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 17:00 (on request until 19:00) and at weekends and on public holidays from 10:00 to 17:00 (also on request until 19:00). In winter, use outside the agreed times is only possible on request.
Prospects and possible effects
With the introduction of "flying without an operations manager" in Heide-Büsum, other airfields in Schleswig-Holstein and beyond could follow suit. For general aviation, this means more flexibility, lower operating costs for airfields and better utilisation of the infrastructure.
In practice, the model could be particularly attractive for private pilots who do not wish to organise their flights strictly around office hours. At the same time, safety remains guaranteed as there are clear reporting and documentation obligations and only non-commercial flights are affected.
Conclusion
Heide-Büsum's decision marks an important step towards a more modern and flexible operation of smaller airfields in Germany. If the experience is positive, the concept could set a precedent and relieve the burden on general aviation in the long term and make it more attractive.
Source references:
Aviation magazine