Briefings on NAS reforms

What happens when Defence pilots can no longer rely on Mandatory Broadcast Zones (MBZs)?

This was a popular question when ADF pilots and air traffic controllers were briefed recently on major reforms to Australia’s airspace management system.

The phased implementation of the National Airspace System (NAS) is well under way with the last of the Stage One changes due to be in place by next month.

The answer to the opening question is that MBZs will be replaced by a new Common Traffic Advisory Procedure which is expected to improve situational awareness for pilots while simplifying compliance with terminal area requirements.

The ADF is developing Operational Requirements that will ensure acceptable levels of safety and security in the new environment.

The Federal Government’s Aviation Reform Group, of which Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Angus Houston is a member, was directed to form a special NAS Implementation Group (NASIG) early last year to manage the implementation of the NAS.

Specialists from Defence, the Department of Transport and Regional Services, and Air Services Australia were seconded to NASIG to undertake the task over the next 18 months.

A NASIG team visited the Basic Flying Training School at Tamworth and the Army Helicopter Base at Oakey on Queensland’s Darling Downs, to outline the NAS changes and answer questions.

ADF personnel heard that the NAS – in operation in the United States – is a proven, simpler airspace management system that will not have a significant effect on the ADF airspace environment.

The new system will also benefit Australia’s aviation sector through compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organisation airspace classifications and the allocation of air traffic control services based on assessed risks.

Air Force members serving with the NASIG are the team’s Deputy Executive Director, Group Captain Wayne Johnston, Squadron Leader Karl Holzmann and Squadron Leader Robert Williams.

The ADF NAS Project Manager, located in AFHQ, is Wing Commander Tim Sloane. He acts as the conduit between the ADF and the NASIG and ensures that the NAS preserves ADF interests.

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