M1, S5, C2 - Strayed And Unidentified Aircraft

Question 1

Strayed aircraft:

Answer 1

An aircraft which has deviated significantly from its intended track, or which reports that it is lost.

Question 2

Unidentified aircraft:

Answer 2

An aircraft which has been observed or reported to be operating in a given area but whose identify has not been established

Question 3

An aircraft may be considered, at the same time…

Answer 3

…as a “strayed aircraft” by one unit and as an “unidentified aircraft” by another unit.

Question 4

Controllers are reminded that a strayed or unidentified aircraft may be the subject of…

Answer 4

…unlawful interference and when this is suspected, shall follow the appropriate local procedures

Question 5

The actions in response to strayed and unidentified aircraft detailed below may not be exhaustive, as no two instances may be similar in nature. Furthermore, ANSPs should ensure that…

Answer 5

…their local instructions reflect any unit specific actions to be taken by controllers when handling such aircraft

Question 6

When a controller becomes aware of an aircraft which has deviated significantly from its intended track but has not reported as being lost, the following actions should be followed in so far as is necessary:

Answer 6

(1) Attempt to establish two-way communication, unless such communication already exists, and inform the pilot of his position
(2) Inform other ATS units into whose area the aircraft has strayed or may stray
(3) Request appropriate assistance from D&D, other ATS units, and other aircraft in establishing communication with the strayed aircraft
(4) Notify, the Civil Watch Supervisor at the parent ACC in the event that unlawful interference is suspected

Question 7

In the event that a pilot reports that he is lost, controllers should endeavour to provide every possible assistance to the pilot and use all available means to determine the aircraft’s position. Controllers should follow, in so far as is necessary, the actions outlined below

Answer 7

(1) Treat an estimated position given by the pilot with caution;
(2) Use ATS surveillance systems and VDF in an attempt to locate the aircraft;
(3) If communications are poor, or the controller suspects that the aircraft is below surveillance coverage, the pilot may be advised to climb. However, controllers should be aware that such a climb may present a pilot with flight conditions beyond their capabilities, and the pilot may prefer to remain with the surface in sight;
(4) Consider terrain clearance if the aircraft is flying at a low level. Controllers should make allowance for terrain and obstructions within a wide area around the estimated position of the aircraft and advise the pilot to climb if there is any doubt that adequate clearance exists. If a pilot is unable or unwilling to climb he is to be warned of potential terrain hazards in the area;
(5) Request assistance from other ATS units in determining the aircraft’s position.
(6) VDF bearings from other units may assist in fixing the position. If it is not possible to establish the position of the aircraft immediately, bearings should be passed to the pilot;
(7) Inform D&D, who are equipped to provide dedicated assistance;
(8) Notify the Civil Watch Supervisor at the parent ACC in the event that unlawful interference is suspected.

Question 8

When the position of a lost aircraft has been established, the controller shall:

Answer 8

(1) advise the aircraft of its position and the corrective action to be taken. This advice shall be immediately provided when the ATS unit is aware that there is a possibility of interception or other hazard to the safety of the aircraft and
(2) provide, as necessary, other air traffic service units and appropriate military units with relevant information concerning the strayed aircraft and any advice given to that aircraft

Question 9

When a controller becomes aware of an unidentified aircraft within airspace for which they are the controlling authority and an ATC clearance is required, or when required by appropriate military authorities, he should follow, in so far as is necessary, the following actions:

Answer 9

(1) Attempt to establish the identity of the aircraft;
(2) Attempt to establish two-way communication
(3) Inform D&D and any other affected ATS units or neighbouring FIRs, and request their assistance in establishing the identity of and two- way communication with the aircraft
(4) Notify, the Civil Watch Supervisor at the parent ACC in the event that unlawful interference is suspected
(5) If possible, attempt to obtain information from other aircraft in the area
(6) As required, notify those units consulted in the tracing of the unidentified aircraft that the aircraft’s identity has been ascertained;
(7) Complete a Mandatory Occurrence Report.