Why was a PPR clearance required until now?
Since the introduction of IFR operations at Schönhagen in 2018, pilots wishing to fly to the airfield under instrument flight rules (IFR) have had to apply in advance for authorisation from the Flow Management Position (FMP) at DFS in Bremen to be obtained. This regulation should ensure that IFR flights in Schönhagen do not collide with the airspace and approach procedures of BER (Berlin Brandenburg Airport).
Restrictions due to the PPR regulation:
- Maximum Two IFR approaches and two IFR departures per hour were permissible.
- Authorisations were often only three hours before the flight which made reliable flight planning difficult.
- Pilots who did not receive PPR clearance had to wait for Berlin-Schönefeld (EDDB) which led to resentment and discussions.
As a result of these restrictions, many pilots and companies in Schönhagen could only be used to a limited extent as an IFR alternative to BER - a challenge for business travellers and airlines.
What will change from 20 February 2025?
With the new regulation, the PPR obligation for all IFR approaches complete. According to DFS, it now has sufficient experience with the Airspace management around BER collected, so that No special prior authorisation is no longer necessary.
In concrete terms, this means for IFR pilots: ✔ More flexible planning - IFR flights can be carried out without additional bureaucracy.
✔ Better accessibility - Companies and business travellers benefit from the improved availability.
✔ Relief of the BER - Aircraft with an MTOM of up to 14 tonnes can now increasingly fly to Schönhagen.
These changes make Schönhagen an ideal location for IFR traffic. even more attractive - especially for the Business Aviation and flight schools that organise IFR training courses there.
Schönhagen airfield: an important location for business aviation
Schönhagen (ICAO code: EDAZ) is one of the largest airfields in Germany and the largest aerodrome for general aviation in the new federal states.
Important facts about EDAZ:
- Location: approx. 25 km south-west of Berlin
- Piste: 1,510 metres long Asphalt track
- Equipment: Terminal, lounge, car hire, restaurant and guest house
- Centre of gravity: Business aviation, flight schools and general aviation
- Function: More important Relief airfield for BER
Especially for Aircraft with an MTOM of up to 14 tonnes Schönhagen has established itself as Alternative to BER (EDDB) established. This means that business travellers and corporate flyers can use Schönhagen as an uncomplicated and fast access point to the capital region without having to go through the time-consuming process at BER.
Source references:
Aerocourier