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Airspace Classification
Dan
Topic Author
Dan created the topic: Airspace Classification
Hi Bob,
Quick question for you regarding airspace classification - You have A,C,D,E,G airspace, is CTAF considered an airspace?.
bobtait replied the topic: Airspace Classification
Good question Dan. It's a common misconception that a CTAF is an volume of airspace surrounding an aerodrome.That is not correct. As the name implies, a CTAF (common traffic advisory frequency) is a radio frequency that is used by aircraft in the vicinity of an aerodrome.
I guess it is due to the requirement to give an inbound call by 10nm that people get the idea that 10nm is some kind of boundary. There is no such thing as a CTAF boundary since it is not a defined piece of airspace and lateral and vertical limits do not apply.
Years ago CTAFs were actually marked on ERC charts with boundaries around the aerodromes and I suspect that that may be where the misconception began. The recommended 10nm inbound call is flexible, note that the AIP actually says you should call by 10nm, not at 10nm. AIP ENR 1.1 para 10.5.7.
bobtait replied the topic: Airspace Classification
It is true that actual dimensions were once given for the so-called CTAF AREA. In fact they once actually marked CTAFs on ERC charts with a boundary on the chart (MTAFs no longer exist). That is no longer the case. You should adopt CTAF procedures and make CTAF calls if you consider that your distance/height makes you relevant traffic to that aerodrome. Specific aerodromes may require consideration of different distances/heights. The simple rule is 'if in doubt - make the call',
