RAAF / AOPA discuss Williamtown over the top

AOPA and RAAF officials have agreed to work on proposals for routing GA aircraft over the top of Williamtown, NSW, at 2500 ft, with holding at 1000 ft instead of 500 ft.

AOPA director Phillip Reiss reports …

AOPA was invited by Squadron Leader Ruth Elsley to visit Williamtown to discuss airspace issues and to get a better understanding of the problems that concern GA pilots. We have been corresponding with SQNLDR Elsley via email since the last NSW RAPAC meeting, where I raised concerns over holding aircraft at 500 ft over water (AOPA April 2008 Page 55).

We have established a good working relationship with the RAAF and were keen to try to find solutions workable for all parties. AOPA president Col Rodgers and I flew in to Williamtown in my Twin Comanche on April 2. Entering Williamtown airspace, our flight was very efficiently handled by Williamtown ATC. After landing we were marshalled and parked on the military side of the base, and met by civil liaison officer FLTLT Daniel Olsen.

Unfortunately SQNLDR Elsley and SQNLDR Craig Dunstone were unavailable but had delegated FLTLT Olsen to meet with us to discuss airspace access. We had a productive meeting with Daniel, which was conducted on a pro-active basis. We emphasised at the meeting that AOPA was seeking ways to facilitate GA aircraft movements within the RAAF system without causing disruption to their flying program.

Daniel was receptive to suggestions put forward by Col and myself – in particular the routing of aircraft over the top of the field at 2500 ft and where holding is required to hold aircraft further south or north of the lane at 1000 ft. The main issue of concern for AOPA is holding at 500 ft. We consider this a safety issue for inexperienced pilots, particularly in conditions of reduced visibility where recovery from a stall/spin or spiral dive situation is unlikely at low altitude.

Daniel said he thought our suggestions had merit, particularly the routing over the top at 2500 ft and this would be discussed along with other options to facilitate movements in the Williamtown airspace. We agreed we have to educate our members on the need for early notice of transit. Suddenly popping up on the radio and expecting a clearance is not an option. I think it is imperative we work with the RAAF ATC on this issue. Traffic is increasing and alternative options need to be explored to allow efficient use of the airspace for all parties.

Daniel conducted us on a tour of the facilities, which included the radar area control room and the tower. Our two-hour visit was a worthwhile exercise. The next step is to follow up and build on the good relations established. It is important to work with the RAAF on these issues and to understand their concerns and priorities. We appreciated the courtesy and hospitality extended to us on our visit, I think the options we put forward, if adopted, will benefit GA and RAAF operations. I am optimistic of an adoption of the suggestions put forward. The routing over the top at 2500 ft, when available, will require a clearance and a request well in advance of transit time.