Module 2 - ATM - Low Visibility Operations Flashcards
When do low visibility operations apply?
Whenever conditions are such that all or part of the manoeuvring area cannot be visually monitored from the control tower.
What are the 2 rules which apply when there is need for traffic to operate on the manoeuvring area during low visibility.
- At the intersection of TWYs, an ACFT or vehicle on a TWY shall not be permitted to hold closer to the other TWY than the holding position limit defined by a clearance bar, stop bar, or TWY intersection marking.
- Longitudinal separation on TWYs shall be as specified for each particular AD by the appropriate ATS authority after taking into account the characteristics of the aids available for surveillance and control of the ground traffic, the complexity of the AD layout and the characteristics of the ACFT using the AD.
What are the factors which need to be considered for low visibility operations? (11)
- All drivers and other personnel authorised to operate on the movement area are adequately trained in these procedures.
- The point at which low visibility procedures come into operation must be well defined.
- A record is maintained of persons and vehicles on the manoeuvring area.
- All non-essential vehicles and personnel must be withdrawn from the movement/manoeuvring area.
- Essential vehicles permitted to enter the manoeuvring area are kept to a minimum and must be in RTF communication with ATC.
- All unguarded gated entrances to the movement area are kept locked and inspected at frequent intervals.
- There is adequate provision for alerting airlines and other organisations with movement area access of the introduction of low visibility procedures.
- Appropriate emergency procedures must be developed so that RFF services can respond quickly during low visibility.
- RWY access TWYs that are not essential for entrance/exit from the particular RWY may be closed.
- Taxi routes to/from the RWY in low visibility may be limited and these should be identified, marked and published for the use of ACFT operators.
- The point in terms of specific RVR/cloud base at which low visibility procedures should be implemented depends on local conditions.
Who is responsible for initiating LVPs?
Aerodrome Control Tower
Who shall the aerodrome control tower inform when procedures for precision approach CAT II/III and LVPs will be applied and also when such procedures are no longer in force?
Approach Control Unit
What do the procedures to be followed for CAT II/III operations include? (7)
- RWY holding positions to be used.
- Minimum distance between an arriving and departing ACFT to ensure protection of the sensitive and critical areas.
- Procedures to verify that ACFT and vehicles have vacated the RWY.
- Procedures applicable to the separation of ACFT and vehicles.
- Applicable spacing between successive approaching ACFT.
- Action(s) to be taken in the event low visibility operations need to be discontinued e.g. due to equipment failure.
- Any other relevant procedures or requirements.
Whenever safety requires such an action, who may suspend any or all VFR operations on or in the vicinity of an aerodrome?
- Approach control unit or appropriate ACC.
- Aerodrome Control Tower.
- The appropriate ATS authority.
In the event of suspension of VFR operations, what does the aerodrome controller need to do?
- Hold all VFR departures.
- Recall all local flights operating under VFR or obtain approval for special VFR.
- Notify the approach control unit or ACC as appropriate of the action taken
- Notify all operators, or their designated representatives of the reason for taking such action, if necessary or requested.
What are the rules concerning separation of SVFR flights?
All SVFR and IFR flights are to be separated in accordance with separation minima and when so prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority, between all SVFR flights e.g. in the UK.
When may SVFR flights be authorised to enter a control zone for the purpose of landings, TKOF and departure from a control zone, cross a control zone or operate locally within one?
When the ground visibility is not less than 1500m.
What is a runway incursion?
An occurrence at an AD involving the incorrect presence of an ACFT, vehicle or person on the protected area of a surface designated for the landing and TKOF of ACFT.
What actions shall be taken by the aerodrome controller if they issue a TKOF/landing clearance and then become aware of a runway incursion or imminent occurence?
- Cancel TKOF clearance for a departing ACFT.
- Instruct a landing ACFT to execute a go around or MISAP.
- In all cases inform ACFT of the RWY incursion or obstruction and its location in relation to the RWY.
NB: Both pilots and air traffic controllers must report obstruction on the RWY or a RWY incursion.
Under what circumstances shall an ACFT making a radar approach be advised to consider executing a MISAP?
- When the ACFT reaches a position from which it appears a successful landing cannot be completed.
- If the ACFT is not visible on the situation display for any significant interval during the last 4km (2NM) of the approach.
- If the position or identification of the ACFT is in doubt during any portion of the final approach.
- In all such cases, the reason for the instruction or the advice should be given to the pilot.
