What is a visual departure under IFR?
A visual departure is an IFR departure in which the aircraft deviates completely or partially from the specified IFR departure procedures while maintaining visual contact with the ground. The aim of this method is to provide a flexible and safe departure option under specific conditions.
Requirements for visual take-offs
The performance of a visual take-off is subject to several conditions relating to both the weather conditions and the pilot's responsibility:
- Weather conditions:
- The main cloud base and ground visibility must be sufficient to ensure obstacle clearance up to the minimum sector altitude (MSA).
- Daylight:
- Visual take-offs are only permitted during the day.
- Responsibility of the pilot:
- The pilot bears sole responsibility for obstacle clearance up to the specified flight altitude.
- Further clearances for route, heading or specific points are issued by air traffic control.
- Communication:
- The pilot can request a visual departure or accept it at the suggestion of air traffic control by correctly reading back the clearance.
- Staggering:
- Air traffic control is responsible for the separation between visual departures and other aircraft in accordance with the airspace classification.
Examples of visual departures
The communication and procedures for visual departures are illustrated by standard examples:
- Example 1: "When airborne, turn left direct KNG, maintain visual reference to terrain until passing 2000 feet."
- Example 2: "When airborne, fly heading 190, maintain visual reference to terrain until passing 1600 feet."
Restrictions and special features
Visual take-offs are generally permitted at all German commercial airports, but may be restricted by local flight restrictions (e.g. noise protection regulations). Special rules also apply in the event of unplanned cancellations:
- Navigation aid not available:
- Visual take-offs can be carried out as an alternative.
- Instrument departure procedure not available:
- If all published procedures fail, a visual take-off can be carried out.
- Significant weather (e.g. thunderstorms):
- Visual take-offs are possible under these conditions, provided that safety is guaranteed.
Special regulations at commercial airports
Additional restrictions apply to visual departures at certain German airports. Here is an overview of the most important regulations:
- Berlin Brandenburg (EDDB): Only for max. twin-engine propeller aircraft and DHC-7.
- Dresden (EDDC): Only for aircraft in the LIGHT and MEDIUM categories.
- Dortmund (EDLW): Only for propeller-driven aircraft up to 5.7 tonnes MTOW.
- Frankfurt (EDDF): Only for max. twin-engine propeller aircraft and DHC-7.
- Munich (EDDM): Only for max. twin-engine propeller aircraft and DHC-7.
- Stuttgart (EDDS): Only for propeller aircraft up to 5.7 tonnes MTOW and helicopters.
Conclusion
The new regulations for IFR visual departures bring more flexibility to the departure process and promote efficient traffic handling at German airports. At the same time, they require pilots to take a great deal of responsibility for maintaining obstacle clearance and implementing the procedures correctly. Air traffic control centres provide support through precise communication and the provision of weather information.
Pilots and air traffic controllers are required to familiarise themselves with the new regulations in order to ensure the safety and efficiency of air traffic. The announcement emphasises the importance of clear responsibilities and the need for close cooperation between pilots and air traffic control.
Source references:
NFL (the link requires a subscription to Eisenschmidt)
