Section 2, Chapter 4 - Special VFR Separation Standards

Question 1

What are the key points regarding Special VFR separations?

Answer 1

• General Conditions: Detailed in MATS Part 1.
• Pilot Requests: Special VFR clearances are issued in response to pilot requests only.
• ATC Authority: ATC cannot impose Special VFR operations on pilots; pilots must be qualified to accept SVFR clearances.

Question 2

Where can information on Special VFR separations for Military/PSNI aircraft be found?

Answer 2

References:
* Section 1, Chapter 22
* Section 1, Chapter 23

Question 3

What is the procedure for separation against unknown traffic for VFR/SVFR aircraft under Radar Control Service?

Answer 3

• Avoiding Action: When requested, avoiding action instructions are issued to VFR/SVFR aircraft under Radar Control Service.
• Separation Minima: Controllers are not required to achieve separation minima against unknown traffic.
• Objective: Instructions aim to reduce the risk of collision as much as possible, considering aircraft proximity and airspace constraints.
• Pilot Compliance: Compliance is subject to prevailing meteorological conditions.
• Reminder to Pilots: Controllers must remind pilots of their responsibility to remain clear of cloud and in sight of the surface.

Question 4

What are the procedures for SVFR circuit traffic?

Answer 4

• Delegation of Control: By approving SVFR circuits, the APR Controller delegates a portion of the Belfast Control Zone to Aerodrome Control while the circuit is active.
• Altitude: SVFR circuits are normally not above 1000 ft.
• Separation Standards: The Aerodrome Controller uses reduced separations in the vicinity of an aerodrome as published in MATS Part 1.
• Visibility: The Aerodrome Controller must ensure the circuit traffic is visible at all times.
• Traffic Restriction: The Aerodrome Controller may restrict the number of SVFR aircraft in the circuit.