12. ATC GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Flashcards
What callsigns are issued to basic flying students and how should controllers handle these callsigns?
a. Pilots undergoing basic flying training will be allocated a 3-figure suffix.
b. Controllers providing a service to student pilots should:
(1) Speak Slowly.
(2) Avoid complex instructions.
(3) Ensure that all instructions are acknowledged.
(4) Assist the pilot as far as workload permits.
How should controllers handle foreign pilots?
Controllers should adopt the same methodology (as per handling student pilots) when providing control instructions to foreign pilots, especially when English is not their first language. Additionally, controllers are to be aware that it is highly unlikely that foreign pilots will be fully aware of UK FIS and national/local procedures. Units should consider providing a verbal or written brief on ATC and local airspace issues during the booking in procedure to mitigate any problems with communicating on frequency.
What is Op LEWIS?
A request for assistance from RAF(U) Swanwick that includes the term Op LEWIS refers to an incident where an AS is believed to be involved in criminal activity. ATC Units should offer all assistance possible to RAF(U) Swanwick.
What UK ASs have arrestor hooks, brake chutes or are capable of engaging runway barrier arrestor systems?
a. Hook: Typhoon.
b. Chute: Typhoon, Hawk TMk2.
c. Barrier: Hawk TMk1, Hawk TMk2.
In the event of chute deployment what considerations should a controller have?
a. ATC should not allow an AS to land behind a streaming AS until the chute is confirmed as clear of the runway unless specified in local orders.
b. The chute is to be collected by a specific chute recovery vehicle. Unit orders should include the provision that brake parachute recovery is not to be undertaken in vehicles where there is a danger of damage being caused to the parachute.
c. A formation planning to stream will conduct a normal approach and touchdown, the AS will self-separate once on the runway prior to streaming.
What incidents should be reported on a Defence Air Safety Occurrence Report (DASOR) on ASIMS if observed/experienced whilst on duty?
a. AS Accidents. An occurrence involving an AS which results in the AS sustaining category 4 or 5 damage or in a person receiving fatal or major injury.
b. AIRPROX. A situation in which, in the opinion of a pilot or controller, the distance between AS as well as their relative positions and speed have been such that the safety of the AS involved was or may have been compromised.
c. Unauthorized Infringement of Airspace. The penetration by an AS into a portion of airspace without prior permission of the appropriate authorities, when such prior permission is required (EUROCONTROL HEIDI).
d. Controller Overload. This will depend upon the experience and currency of the controller.
e. Airfield and Runway Incursions.
(1) Airfield Incursion. The incorrect or unauthorised presence of an AS, vehicle, person, animal or object within the boundary of an aerodrome or para-drop site that has the potential to affect safety, security, disrupt operations or incur the protected area of a surface that is designed for the landing and take-off of AS.
(2) Runway Incursion. Any occurrence at an aerodrome involving the incorrect presence of an AS, vehicle or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and take-off of AS.
f. Level Busts. A deviation of 300 feet or more from the assigned level (CAA SARG).
g. Loss of Separation/Deconfliction Minima.
h. Breach of ATM Regulations.
i. Occurrence Report Filed Against Controller. When a civilian MOR or DASOR has been filled against the military controller.
j. Failure of ATM Equipment. Loss of surveillance, navigation or communication facilities, with no backup system available.
k. Fatigue. A physiological state of reduced mental or physical performance capability, resulting from sleep loss or extended wakefulness and/or physical activity than can impair alertness and ability to perform safety related duties, whether observed in yourself or others (ICAO).
What is a High Intensity Radio Transmission Area (HIRTA) and what actions should a controller take when transiting an AS in the vicinity of one?
A HIRTA is an airspace of defined dimensions within which there is radio energy at intensity levels which can affect weapon systems and interfere with or, on occasion, cause damage to comms and navigation equipment.
When may IFR ASs transit through an active TRA(G)?
Only when in emergency or engaged in ADPF duties.
