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EU Border Controls expanded

02MAR Travellers and crews operating to Denmark, Belgium and other EU countries will need to present travel documents to enter from another Schengen country. The security checks will likely cause travel delays for EU and non-EU travellers into the Schengen area. 


 
New NAT Plotting Chart published

02MAR With the multitude of changes on the North Atlantic in the last few months, including new Tracks, end of MNPS, new HLA, RNP4 - we have published an updated and revised Plotting Chart for the NAT region, showing all new requirements and with updated Airport and Fuel pricing. It's effective 03MAR.

 
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MIDWEEK OPERATIONS Briefing

Read this weeks and earlier briefings at flightservicebureau.org ...

VOXX/India has expanded its e-Tourist Visa (eTV) program to applicants from 37 additional countries. Eligible visitors under the eTV include business visitors and those traveling to sightsee, visit friends or relatives or to make short medical visits. Nationals from a total of 150 countries are now eligible for the program.

EXXX/Europe Due to the introduction and continuation of border controls in the European Union, travellers to Denmark, Belgium and other EU countries will need to present travel documents to enter from another Schengen country. The security checks will likely cause travel delays for EU and non-EU travellers into the Schengen area. Belgium has instituted border controls at its borders with France. The security checks will remain in place until at least 23MAR.

KTEB/Teterboro will close 0500-1700Z (12 hour closure) this weekend - from midnight Saturday until noon Sunday. This closure is necessary to install new, mandatory hold short signs on Runway 19, which will close the runway intersection. Helicopter operations will be permitted during the closure.

HKXX/Kenya A visa on arrival is now available again at Nairobi, reversing the previous procedure established last year forcing all visitors to obtain one prior to flying. Online visas are still available. http://evisa.go.ke/evisa.html

NFXX/Fiji As of 25FEB, there are 42 confirmed deaths in Fiji due to the damage caused by Cyclone Winston, which made landfall over the 20-21 February weekend. Approximately 35,000 people are sheltering in evacuation centers. There has been little to no contact with remote islands; therefore, the number of casualties and people displaced is likely much higher. Concern about the outbreak of mosquito-borne viruses, such as Zika and dengue fever.

WAXX/Indonesia Australian DFAT updated its travel advice for Indonesia, which reads: "We advise you to exercise a high degree of caution in Indonesia, including Jakarta, Bali and Lombok, due to the high threat of terrorist attack. We continue to receive information that indicates that terrorists may be planning attacks in Indonesia”

SKXX/Colombia is introducing ADS-B, with associated new phraseologies that crew should be aware of. ATC may ask “Notify capacity ADS-B”; response “ADS-B transmitter”, “ADS-B Receiver”, or “Negative ADS-B”. Full AIC.

LOWW/Vienna has a couple of new RNP AR (Authorisation Required) approaches to RWY 16 and 34 on test.

LIXX/Italy is joining the Free Route Airspace (FRA) bandwagon, airspace trial this coming weekend 05-07MAR at FL370 and above in Roma, Milano, Padova and Brindisi ACC, and Malta ACC.

UKXX/Ukraine Did you know that there was reduced horizontal separation in Ukraine airspace (RHSM)? Neither did we. Check out AIC 02/16.

UIBB/Bratsk has fuel supply issues again, current shortage until 31MAR.


Read this and previous briefings at flightservicebureau.org ...

FROM Our Blog ...
Our aim with the weekly International Ops Bulletin that we produce is to take relevant operational news affecting International Flight Operations each week, and simplify it.

It’s a learning process for us as well, because the technical language of aviation is often unnecessarily verbose, legalese, jargon-filled text. Spare a moment for those of us that don’t have English as our first language (and that’s most).

Read the full post ...
What Wake Turbulence Category is a B757?

That long favoured question by Dispatch Trainers and ATC Instructors will become a thing of the past under new rules slowly being introduced in Europe, where the current four (Light, Medium, Heavy, Super) will become six. The first place you will see this happening is at LFPG/Paris Charles de Gaulle and LFPB/Paris Le Bourget, from 22 MAR 2016.

Read the full post ...
New North Atlantic Plotting Chart
With all the recent changes to the structure and requirements for North Atlantic airspace, we’ve published a new North Atlantic Plotting Chart, effective 03MAR16 to coincide with AIRAC cycle 1604.

The new chart is now in High-Res, allowing it to be printed up to 3 x 2.1 meters, and shows all the new rules and requirements in graphical format – as well as updated Fuel Pricing, revised Bruce Spruce routes, boundary fixes, and updated FPL codes for new HLA/High Level Airspace.

World Overflight Map
The World Overflight Map combines Conflict Zones, overflight risk, news and alerts, weather alerts, airspace warnings, and ATC delays into one summary map.

Functionality:
    - World view, or zoom in to regions AFI, ASI, EUR, NAM, CAR, SAM, OCN
    - Hover over each country for information on current warnings and overflight risk
    - In addition, overflight permit requirements for each country
    - Current news and airspace warnings

Bookmark fsbureau.org/map to view the live version of this map.
Map is in beta. Feedback is welcomed to charts@fsbureau.org.
 
Questions on topics in the bulletin? We'll be happy to answer them at intl.desk@fsbureau.org. The Flight Service Specialist team is here H24 to help. You can also use this email to organise ad-hoc support with international flights, Air traffic rights, Permits, Flight Planning, Comms, Charts, and Airport operations.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS For the coming week
CAA’s may be closed - check any overflight lead time changes with intl.desk@fsbureau.org

03MAR Georgia - Mothers' Day, Bulgaria - Liberation Day, Malawi - Martyr's Day
04MAR Bulgaria - Bridge Holiday
06MAR Ghana - Independence Day
07MAR India, Sri Lanka - Maha Shivaratri, Russia - New Year Holiday Substitution, Moldova - International Women's Day, Ghana - Independence Day, Mauritius - Maha Shivaratree

 

International FLIGHT REPORTS
A new idea suggested by a couple of different readers: If you’ve operated somewhere interesting, or have a report that others might find useful, please take 2 minutes to send us an anonymous Flight Report using this tool.

VTSP / Phuket (Global XRS - Private) No parking will be granted, even though we where asking for parking to ensure minimum rest for Crew, had to ferry out regardless. Be careful when planning there and watch your duty time.

Turkish Airspace (GLF5 - Private). We recently were delayed prior to departure because Turkey apparently has now implemented overflight clearance as a necessity to M-registered aircraft. Have other M-registered operators found this the case? (bulletin@fsbureau.org).

TAPA/Barbados (BD700 - Private). Inbound lost communication with San Juan center below FL220 and could not reestablish even trying 121.5. Contacted VC Bird and continued. Inbound was uneventful. Expect parking on the ramp area, which is the abandoned runway. Great service and handling by Signature. Departing expect delays. The 5 min before engine start call may become a 10 min prior call due to ATC delays. Also expect to back track on the runway following one or more aircraft, and being staged on a taxiway elsewhere. IFR clearance wasn't received until lining up just prior to take off clearance. Was never given a squawk code even after asking several times. Just informed Bradshaw approach upon initial contact and was told "don't worry". Expect potential holding going into Antigua with these conditions.

ESNQ/Kiruna, Sweden (A320 - Airline). Be aware to check ISA deviation and SAT as we encountered very low temp even down to FL280 (close to -74°C) and couldn't start APU before landing. Weather minima must be checked carefully before circling to intercept ILS21. Swedavia ATC and Handling very efficient and reactive. Take care of you too when on ground in winter time (-30°C or less). 03FEB16.

FSHS/St. Helena (A319 - Airline) Arrival to Runway 02 from the north, considering closest alternate is in Angola, fuel status and weather need to be monitored carefully. No other traffic, so handling was smooth. FHAW/Wideawake is about 2 hours flying, available as emergency airport.

LLBG/Tel Aviv (GLEX - Private) Upon landing new procedure dictates shutting down and clearing customs with passengers. After cleared, handler will shuttle crew back to the aircraft for relocation to remote parking stand. Added approximately 55 minutes to duty day.

WIHH/Jakarta Halim (BD700 - Private) Halim airport in Jakarta, has an ever increasing tendency to close due to VIP/ Presidential movements. We have had Notams pop up during a 1:10 min flight from Singapore that required us to hold for anywhere from 30-60 mins.

MWCR/Cayman ( Hs125 - Private) Island air does a great job. Customs and immigration are very courteous. Typical "Island time"; no one is a rush, but not slow. Parking can be tight, make sure they have an idea on when you are departing since you could be stacked behind 4 or more aircraft. Fueling comes from the terminal so make sure you request fuel early. Typical tropic island rain showers/storms. We have seen it raining on one half of the airport while the other is clear. Less than 1/2 mile walk to Airline Terminal.

 
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WORLD WEATHER: Radar and Satellite
Combined satellite and radar image at 0000Z today.
 
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ACTIVE BULLETINS Summary
 NORTH AMERICA

KAGS/Augusta, USA Special Procedures in place 07-10APR for US Masters Golf Tournament.

MKJK/Kingston FIR Jamaica, has ongoing issues with radar coverage and serviceability, leading to ad-hoc flow management procedures including 15 minute en-route separation, and 10 minute arrival separation at international airports. Latest update indicates this will continue throughout February. We have had several reports from international airlines of delays averaging around 1 hour on departure. Further reports welcome to bulletin@fsbureau.org.

Kxxx/United States A few weeks ago we reported on new FAA FDC NOTAMs that eliminate the need to obtain a TSA Waiver for domestic flights in the US. on 17JAN The FAA has corrected an error in these (in simple terms, they forgot to include some previously issued exceptions), and so there are 3 brand new NOTAMS effective - these are 6/4255, 6/4256 and 6/4260. Got some time? Read the original NOTAMs in full.

KXXX/USA The requirement for foreign operators to obtain a TSA Waiver for domestic flights within the US has been dropped, but only for aircraft under 45 tons. See new Notams FDC 6/4255, 6/4256 and 6/4260. Read the original NOTAMs in full 

KXXX/USA Several changes to the rules for the US Visa Waiver program are now in effect, restricting the moment of travelers having visited Iran, Iraq, Sudan, or Syria in the last 5 years. Read more here.

Cxxx/Canada Nav Canada has issued AIC 30/15 which addresses a proposal for amendment to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Global Operational Data Link Document (GOLD) to optimize high frequency (HF) radiotelephony use in the North Atlantic (NAT) Region. The change eliminates NAT Region specific RT phraseology that has been made redundant with the availability of flight data to radio operators.

KXXX/USA The FAA is rolling out Controller Pilot Data Link Communications-Departure Clearance (CPDLC-DCL). Currently, only George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, TX (IAH), William P. Hobby Airport in Houston, TX (HOU) and Salt Lake City International Airport in Utah (SLC) are operational, however, the FAA plans to bring 56 airports online by the end of 2016. KTEB/Teterboro is scheduled to be operational by the end of MAR2016.

CXXX/Canada Starting 15MAR2016 visitors to Canada from visa-exempt countries will require an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) prior to departure. The ETA can be obtained online and is valid for 5 years. Only US Nationals are exempt from the requirement.

US Operators should be aware of the new FAA ATC phraseologies effective 03APR14. The FAA will implement “climb via” phraseology and procedures for departure operations consistent with existing “descend via” phraseology and procedures. “Climb via” and “descend via” are abbreviated ATC clearances that require compliance with the procedure's lateral path, associated speed restrictions, and altitude restrictions published on the SID or STAR. Some good information at http://www.nbaa.org/ops/cns/pbn/climb-via/dasd

MMMX/Mexico City International Airport cannot be used as a filed alternate on flight plans. As per CO- AV-44/15.


 CARIBBEAN

MUXX/Cuba Flight crews of US based aircraft can now remain in Cuba with their aircraft when traveling to the island nation, instead of having to reposition immediately after offloading passengers. The change took effect on 27JAN, with new amendments to the Cuban Assets Control Regulations and Export Administration Regulations issued by the U.S. OFAC and BIS.

MKJK/Kingston FIR Jamaica, has ongoing issues with radar coverage and serviceability, leading to ad-hoc flow management procedures including 15 minute en-route separation, and 10 minute arrival separation at international airports. Delays appear likely. Reports welcome to bulletin@fsbureau.org.

MHTG/Central America FIR reminds operators that a CENAMER notification by AFTN is required for all flights planning to enter the airspace.

MUHA/Havana, Cuba Hotel Capacity in Havana is under severe strain at present. With increased traffic to Cuba, finding a hotel room is now a regular challenge. Some airline crews have had to be accommodated in Varadero instead, as there were no hotel rooms left in the city. Book well in advance, where possible.

TTZP/Piarco ATC has issued a request for operators to include KNYCZZZX when filing plans entering New York Oceanic airspace from the Piarco FIR, or operating east of 58W within the Piarco FIR, in order that New York has details of the aircraft.

MWCR/Grand Cayman may be forced to shorten the runway at Owen Roberts International Airport (MCWR/GCM). The runway, which was extended to accommodate long-haul flights, may have to be shortened in order to accommodate a 400 ft/124 m safety area. An extension of the runway cannot be further extended, and the airport authority is examining all options.

MHTG/Central America FIR now has operational CPDLC with logon MHTG. FPL should contain D1 and either J2, J5 or J7 to indicate the type of datalink capability.

 
 ATLANTIC

BGSF/Sondrestrom Artic Winter Games will take place 05 and 06MAR, meaning that capacity to handle other flights is very limited, with risk of insufficient fuel for ad-hoc operations. Greenland Airports company have recommended to avoid BGSF this weekend. 

North Atlantic Effective 04FEB MNPS Airspace is replaced by HLA/High Level Airspace on the North Atlantic - extended with Bodø joining Shanwick, Gander, Reykjavik, New York, and Santa Maria. RNP4 or RNP10 now required. Read our International Ops Notice 01/2016 or our blog post: Did you know MNPS is over?

EISN/Shannon FIR Due to a number of flights deviating from clearances prior to exiting Shanwick OCA, flight crews are reminded that Eastbound route clearances issued by Shannon Control for aircraft exiting Oceanic Airspace apply from AGORI, SUNOT, BILTO, PIKIL, ETARI, RESNO, VENER, DOGAL, NEBIN, MALOT, TOBOR, LIMRI, ADARA, DINIM, RODEL, SOMAX, KOGAD, BEDRA, OMOKO, TAMEL AND LASNO. Flights shall not turn before these points.

EGGX/Shanwick have issued a reminder to flights operating on the “Tango Routes” (T9, T16, T213) that HF in all cases is required to operate here, and crews should be trained in the procedures. Request OCA Clearance 50 mins in advance. Primary/Secondary HF freqs: Southbound 6547/8879, Northbound 8879/6547. 

CZQX/Gander FIR / EGXX/Shanwick FIR /  North Atlantic Multiple airspace and procedural changes take place 14DEC2015 with RLAT/Reduced Lateral separation in the NAT region. Flight Service Bureau has issued International Ops Notice 11/15 "NAT Track Structure", with a simple summary of the changes; get a copy here.

NAT/North Atlantic To assist Aircraft Operators with the changes on the North Atlantic, we have produced a new Aircraft Plotting Chart effective 03MAR16 showing the new Oceanic Entry Points, airspace entry requirements, suitable diversion airports with handling and fuel pricing, and some dispatcher tools like available levels, NAT FPL codes, FPL filing addresses, and FIR codes. A copy is available here.



NAT/North Atlantic Phase 2 of the North Atlantic datalink mandate began with Phase 2a on 05FEB2015, at which time flights within the North Atlantic Tracks (NAT) between FL350 and FL390 must be equipped with Fans 1/A controller-pilot datalink communications (CPDLC) and ADS-C systems. The program expands to these altitudes in the entire ICAO NAT region on 07DEC2017, and to all flights in this region above FL290 on 30JAN2020.

NAT/North Atlantic Effective 29MAY14 significant changes affect the structure and design of NAT Tracks, and Oceanic Flight Planning. The Gander Oceanic Transition Area (GOTA) is introduced. The Fish Points are largely removed, and the construction of NAT Tracks and anchor points/pairings changed. Blue Spruce Routes are also changed.
 SOUTH AMERICA

SPIM/Lima FIR Peru have published new Aircraft Interception procedures for Civil Aircraft. Probably worth a look - although, we must warn you, they are in Spanish only, and exceptionally lengthy. Maybe just double check that overflight permit and keep in touch with ATC instead. 

SKED/Bogota ACC, Colombia is applying 20 minute spacing for northbound flights heading into Jamaican airspace due to the increasing delays there.

NCRG/Rarotonga, Cook Islands has new hours of ATC service: 2050 SUN-0400 MON, 1500 MON-1930 MON, 0530 WED-1400 WED, 2100 THU-1000 FRI, 2100 FRI-1000 SAT, 1400 SAT-1930 SAT, 0600 SUN-1130 SUN. These are UTC/Z Times, local is UTC-10. Raro is an important diversion airport in the South Pacific, especially for Easter Island and Tahiti. ATC is avail with 30 mins PN outside these hours (call +682 25890/71439).

SBxx/Brazil Tourists from Australia, Canada, Japan and the United States will be eligible to travel to Brazil for the upcoming Olympics without a visa for up to 90 days for visits between 01JUN and 18SEP16, though no extensions will be available. Proof of Olympic attendance is not required for this visa waiver. Business travelers from these countries will still require business visas during this time. Eligible travelers should be sure to confirm the validity of their travel documents prior to their trips. After 18SEP, tourists from these countries will require tourist visas for entry.

Central/South America On 10DEC2015, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a Level 1 Travel Warning for Mexico, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Brazil, Columbia, Paraguay, Suriname and Venezuela, advising travelers to protect themselves against the Zika Virus. Zika is a viral disease transmitted by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, which also carries the dengue and chikungunya viruses.

SPJC/Lima, Peru Effective 12NOV the Location Indicator for the main airport in Lima, Jorge Chavez, changes from SPIM to SPJC.

SOOO/Cayenne FIR, South Atlantic - Aircraft not FANS 1A equipped, east of 50W in the Cayenne FIR, can now expect a maximum level of FL310 westbound.

SEXX/Ecuador A new DGAC resolution now effective permits non-scheduled aircraft to land without a Landing Permit as long as the aircraft is operating under private ops, will not stay longer than 72 hours in Ecuador, and visits only one location in Ecuador. The official document is here (in Spanish).

SAEZ/Bueno Aires has a new General Aviation Terminal that is now open. Customs clearance can be facilitated within the terminal, all items must be taken off the aircraft on arrival. Commercial ad-hoc aircraft still require a landing permit from ANAC, lead time several weeks.

SAWC/El Calafate, Argentina A reminder that a spanish-speaking ‘Navigator’ is required on board for arrivals/departures to communicate with ATC if the crew do not speak ‘Spanish ATC’.

SPJC/Lima, Peru Struggling with Airport capacity. A variety of significant restrictions for General Aviation, Non Scheduled, and Cargo flights in effect. Check carefully with your handler or dispatcher as all movements should be co-ordinated at least 24 hrs in advance.

 
 AFRICA

Somalia A local terrorist organisation claimed responsibility for the bombing of a Daallo Airlines passenger aircraft on 02FEB shortly after it took off from Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport (HCMM/MGO). The bombing forced the Airbus A321-111 to make an emergency landing at Mogadishu’s airport.

South Africa Refurbishment will affect Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport (FAOR/JNB) beginning 13FEB when security and immigration will move from Terminal A to the Central Terminal. Slow processing expected until end March.

HRYR/Kigali's runway is closed on a nightly basis from 0200-0700 local time (0000-0500 UTC) until 31MAR for repairs.

DNKK/Kano ACC Nigeria, Area Radar Service is provided H24 from 04FEB.

FHAW/Ascension Island is now operating at Rescue and Firefighting Category 8/RFF8. 

FMMM/Madagascar CAA have issued a reminder to inbound operators that a Passenger List must be sent 24 hrs prior to departure for Madagascar, by email to gdpx@acm.mg.

FYWH/Windhoek, Namibia has new opening hours from 23DEC, 0700-2000LT Daily.

HUEC/Entebbe ACC, Uganda. ATC in Uganda is reporting a significant increase in the number of flights entering their airspace without prior coordination from Sudan and Congo (Khartoum and Kinshasa FIRs). Regional ATC in Africa is known to be challenging, but this warning deserves attention. Crews should make all efforts to contact each FIR 10 mins in advance - HF 11300, or relay on 126.9 if unable.

FVFA/Victoria Falls Intl A new international passenger terminal opened at Victoria Falls International Airport (FVFA/VFA) on 02DEC.

FQNC/Nacala,Mozambique Mozambique’s airport management company AdM stated on 24 November 2015 that Nacala Airport is expected to receive the proper certification to service international flights by December 2015. International airlines can begin using the facility by March or April 2016. Nacala Airport was a former military airbase and it opened as a civilian facility in December 2014. However, to date, the airport has only been permitted to service domestic flights.

DNxx/Nigeria The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, NCAA, suspended some oil marketers from supplying Jet A1 to airlines due to a lack of depot facilities. The affected marketing companies include Jushad Oil and Gas Limited, Lubcon Limited, Ascon Oil Company Limited, Acon Petroleum Limited and Star Orient Aviation Limited.

HKXX/Kenya No longer possible to obtain a visa on arrival for passengers. Must now be arranged prior to arrival online at https://account.ecitizen.go.ke/register.

HLLL/Tripoli FIR, Libya. Overflight Risk due MANPADS. Recommended to avoid entire FIR. Airspace entry prohibited for UK, US, French, US Carriers.

GABS/Bamako ACC, Mali. Overflight Risk due surface weapons. FAA A0004/15 recommends FL260 minimum. Highest risk in North near Mopti.

Hxxx/South Sudan UK NOTAM V0049/15 issued for potential risk to aviation from dedicated surface to air weaponry. Operators are strongly advised not to enter the territory and airspace of South Sudan.
 
 EUROPE / RUSSIA

EHAM/Amsterdam has changed the callsign of Schiphol Start-up to “Schiphol Planner”.

EPKK/Krakow Runway 07/25 is closed daily 2330-0430 until 03MAR.

UXXX/Simferopol FIR EASA published an updated SIB 2015/16 regarding the use of Simferopol FIR on 17FEB. The key change is the phased reintroduction of the use of Simferopol FIR for international transit traffic, on the basis of an evaluation of the high seas portion of the airspace (ie. outside the 12nm territorial limit of the Crimean Peninsula). This airspace provides routes UL851 and UM856 (Odesa South Sector), which since 17FEB are suggested by EASA for use by overflying traffic.

EXXX/Europe New Wake Turbulence Categories will begin a slow introduction in Europe on 22MAR at Paris Airports LFPG/De Gaulle and LFPB/Le Bourget, where the current four (Light, Medium, Heavy, Super) will become six. Those six new categories are Light, Medium (with Lower and Upper), and Heavy (with Lower, Upper and Super). The rules are part of the RECAT-EU project, with the intention of squeezing more traffic into busy European Airports by applying more precise turbulence separation rules. The separation minima are determined specific to each Aircraft Pair. For example, at the moment, an A330 following a B777 (Heavy behind heavy) requires 4 miles in trail. With the new rules, that is reduced to 3nm. An A320 can now follow 4 miles behind a B777, instead of the current 5nm. There are no Flight Planning Changes (continue to use /L,M,H,J for the ICAO Category). For crews, you'll notice the smaller separation, but there are no changes to callsigns or pilot obligations - for now. Read full article.

UUBW/Moscow Ramenskoye, which previously served as a military airfield, is scheduled to open to civilians as an International Airport on 15MAR2016. The airport will be Moscow’s fourth largest and is expected to serve approximately 1.9 million passengers per year. Russian Railways is planning on constructing a direct rail link between the facility and Moscow. Read the full article.

Italy Some health and aviation authorities have begun targeting business aircraft to be treated with insecticide – similar to requirements that have been in place for commercial aircraft arriving from certain points of origin. The most prominent to date is Italy, which has reported several recent cases of the Zika virus affecting people who returned from trips to South America and the Caribbean. A “Certificate of Residual Disinsection” is now required for all aircraft operating in Italy, following recommended WHO and International Civil Aviation Organization Annex 9 procedures. Italy had originally limited the certificate requirement to aircraft arriving from Zika-affected countries, but “within 36 hours that changed” to all countries. Authorities in Costa Rica are requiring that aircraft arriving from affected countries be sprayed on arrival – with crew, passengers and luggage aboard – with an insecticide provided by the local agriculture department. 

UKLV/Lviv FIR, Ukraine A new Notam (A0193/16) is issued to extend the ban in Ukrainian Airspace of any aircraft operator registered in the Russian Federation until 09MAY.

ENGM/Oslo Oslo Airport has started supplying Air BP Biojet via its regular fuel hydrant system, naming three large European airlines as launch customers. It is now is supplied from the main fuel farm, via common storage and distribution facilities, without the need for segregated infrastructure. Previously, it had to be provided by fuel truck. 

EHAM/Amsterdam has raised the minimum vectoring altitude from 1200ft to 1600ft, which seems to spell an end to those super efficient 3 mile final approaches to 06. Still the best Terminal ATC in Europe.

Europe EASA has launched a 2 person cockpit survey to open discussion on the impact of their new recommended practice of always having 2 crew members in the cockpit.

Eurocontrol NOP Changes There are some significant changes to the daily Eurocontrol Briefings effective 01FEB. Network News is no longer, and the D-1 daily conference is also gone. Instead, an Initial Network Plan is published each day at 1700Z on the Network Operations Portal. 

United Kingdom The UK Registered Traveller Service, which is the equivalent of the US Global Entry program, was expanded to include a few more countries: Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan. Additionally, Bristol and Cardiff will be added to the list of participating airports.

UIII/Irkutsk has issued NOTAM A0134/16 closing RWY 12/30 weekly on Tuesdays from 1210-1450Z beginning Feb 02 and ending March 22. UIII is not available as an alternate during those times.
 
UHSS/Yuzhno is closed daily between 0330-0500Z due to preventative maintenance. No end date has been issued. 

UUDD/Moscow Arrival of An-124 and B747 aircraft only by prior coordination with the Airport Company until March.

Georgia and Ukraine the EC announced that both Georgia and Ukraine meet requirements for being granted visa-free travel to the European Union’s Schengen zone. However, the European Parliament and the EU member states must vote in favor of granting Georgia and Ukraine visa-free travel before they are able to do so. Reports indicated that the decision could be put to a vote as early as 2016.

ESxx/Sweden have been forced to suspend, with immediate effect, flights from northern Iraq to Sweden following a directive from the Swedish Transport Agency (Transportstyrelsen). In a statement issued last week, Transportstyrelsen said the increased military activity across northern Iraq posed a threat to civilian flights thus warranting a ban.

Russia/Turkey Effective 01DEC, Direct non-scheduled flights between Russia and Turkey are banned by decree of the President of the Russian Federation dated 28NOV. Prohibited for all airlines, regardless of the country of aircraft’s registration .

EIDW/Dublin The DAA and IAA are currently exploring a further reduction in SID separation to 75 seconds (following aircraft given take-off clearance when preceding aircraft reaches 1NM past DER). Ongoing AIM is to reduce further to 60 seconds if possible. 

LFRR/Brest FIR Training and stepped implementation of the ERATO paperless strip system in Brest FIR commenced on 24NOV and will last until 18DEC with significant capacity reductions. A transition period with capacity reductions will follow from 19DEC; this may potentially extend into Summer 2016. Moderate and (in some case) high delays may be expected daily, depending on the sector configuration provided.

BKPR/Kosovo Airspace to the north of Kosovo was released from UN/KFOR restriction, to Serbian control, on 20NOV, meaning that arrivals and departures from Europe will no longer have to make a circuitous approach and can depart to the north. Procedures are not yet in place, but technically the airspace is no longer restricted. For most operators this will see a route saving of up to 100nm.

EXXX/Europe The European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) is providing a new tool to calculate Passenger Taxes payable in EU countries. The “PaxTax” tool calculates the total passenger tax for the flight, and breaks down the cost for both departure and arrival for the respective national taxing authorities.

UUBC/Grabtsevo New Russian Airport now fully operational with 2200m runway (12/30) and able to accommodate international traffic up to A320/737 size.

LFxx/France Datalink implemented from 22OCT LFRR/Brest and LFBB/Bordeaux ACC from 0900L. Initial phase, no ACL (Clearance via CPDLC), and aircraft must be on Eurocontrol whitelist. Ref France AIC A22/15.

EGxx/London FIR. From 01OCT15, the authority for the UK FMP to issue discretionary -5/+5 CTOT extensions has been removed. ATS Units/Operators should ensure that aircraft are started and pushed back in good time to meet the CTOT and the standard -5/+10 Slot Tolerance Window. An updated EOBT should be sent prior to start up if the CTOT cannot be met.

LIXX/Italy Any flight departing Libya is not permitted to overfly or land in Italy. Ref Notam W1931/2015.

UKxx/Ukraine Effective 25OCT2015 Russian aircraft will be banned from flying through Ukraine airspace due to current political situation.

Uxxx/Russia In return, Ukrainian registered aircraft will be unable to fly through Russian airspace.

UKxx/Ukraine FIR's There are two distinct areas at issue in the Ukraine. Simferopol FIR is closed to international traffic since 03APR14 due to a dispute between authorities over control. Dnipropetrovsk FIR has had the eastern half closed by the Ukrainian CAA on 18JUL following the shootdown of MAS17. Most operators are avoiding the entire FIR. The remainder of the Ukraine FIR’s are open (L’viv, Kiev, Odessa) with majority of airlines operating through. Heaviest Traffic flows are via G724 (North) and UL852 and UP975 (South).

EDDT/Berlin Tegel’s closure has been postponed until 2017 due to the delays in opening the new Brandenburg Airport

BIRK/Reykjavik, Iceland open H24 but Take Off not permitted 2330-0700 weekdays, 2330-0800 weekends.

EDDF/Frankfurt, Germany The overnight curfew 2300-0500 remains in place for all aircraft using Frankfurt International.

UMMM/Minsk FIR will accept scheduled flights that avoid Ukraine airspace via Belarus airspace based on FPL. Operators should insert the following note in field 18 of the FPL: (RMK/THIS FLT REROUTED DUE TO AVOID UKRAINE) Other flights operating in Belarus airspace shall be guided by Belarus AIP (GEN 1.2-3).


 
 MIDDLE EAST

Uxxx/Tajikistan The U.K.’s Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) issued updated travel advice for Tajikistan that reads as follows: “In early September 2015, armed clashes involving security forces resulted in a number of deaths close to Dushanbe International Airport and in the Romit Valley not far from Dushanbe. While tensions have eased, security remains heightened. You should continue to take extra care, monitor the local media and check this advice regularly.”

UBxx/Azerbaijan is part of the IFPS (Integrated Flight Plan System) zone as of AIRAC 1601 on 07JAN2016. Azerbaijan will delegate responsibility for the provision of flight planning services for IFR/GAT flights within the Baku FIR to the Network Manager's Integrated Initial Flight Plan Processing System. For more info see Azerbaijan AIC 01/2016 Series A, AIP ENR 1.10, AIP ENR 1.11 and NOTAM A0126/15.

OMxx/United Arab Emirates It has been advised to us, that the requirement for TCAS 7.1 also applies to the Emirates FIR. All aircraft arrivals/departures or those transiting UAE airspace from 01DEC must be 7.1 compliant, or a re-route around UAE airspace will be required. Another option is to obtain a special dispensation to operate, this is available from GCAA in AUH, but is reportedly difficult to obtain. For more details please see the UAE AIP ‘Gen 1.5.6.6 Carriage of ACAS-II’.

OIIX/Tehran FIR German Authorities published a new Notam last week warning of a risk to flight for aircraft operating in the vicinity of OITT/Tabriz, OITL/Ardabil, and OIGG/Rasht. DFS, the German ATC agency, recommends overflying this general region at FL260 or higher. A6875/15.

LTxx/Turkey In response to the downing of a Russian Fighter Jet, Russia will be suspending the Visa-Free Travel program between the countries effective 01JAN2016.

HLLL/Libya FIR Due to the recent escalation of the Libyan Crisis all Italian aircraft operators have been prohibited from flying through HLLL FIR. Prior Permission to operate into HL available aerodromes also requires Prior Permission by the Libyan CAA. REF NOTAM A8382/15 which replaced A5637/15.

OYSC/Sanaa FIR We’ve received input from a number of US Airlines that although Yemeni landmass airspace is prohibited, operations through the OYSC/Sanaa FIR Oceanic portion are available in accordance with FDC5/5575.

HLLL/Tripoli FIR Additional new southbound route available via RASNO UY751 LOSUL, for those operators using the airspace.

HESH/Sharm el-Sheikh remains open but subject to multiple advice notices from international Authorities. Many airlines have cancelled operations into the airport after increasing suspicions that a bomb was loaded here onto the A320 which crashed into the Sinai Desert.

HLLL/Tripoli FIR Libya has issued updated advice regarding airport availability - HLLQ, HLTQ and HLZW are only available for international arrivals, daylight hours only. PPR and Permit is required prior operations.

OXXX/Middle East On 06 OCT 15 the Russian military launched 26 Kalibr-class cruise missiles from 4 ships in the Caspian Sea at targets in Syria. These missiles were routed through the airspace of Azerbaijan, Iran, Iraq and Syria, causing concern as to the safety of international air traffic crossing the missiles trajectory amid the potential for further strikes. We have published International Ops Notice 10/15 as a summary. To obtain a copy, email intl.desk@fsbureau.org or click here.



LTxx/Turkey FIR Please be advised that any Operator flying through the South East part of Turkish Airspace along Iraq/Iran border should check the current NOTAMS published by Turkish Authorities. Route restriction and Airspace availability are clearly indicated ref NOTAM A3709/15 ,A5085/15 and A5086/15.

OYSC/Sanaa FIR, Yemen Closed to overflights due to fighting; US aircraft specifically prohibited by FAA from overflying by Notam A10/15. Some countries have noted that the overwater portion is safe for use but this is to be carefully assessed by the individual operator.



OAxx/Kabul FIR, Afghanistan overflight risk due MANPADS. Germany recommends min FL330, FAA FL260, French FL240.

ORBB/Baghdad FIR, Iraq. Overflight Risk due conflict. Recommended to avoid FIR Entirely. FAA Prohibits US Carriers A0065/14. Most operators avoiding.

OSLK/Basel al-Assad closed to civilian traffic effective 13OCT due to Russian military operations in Syria. Flights will be diverted to OSDI/Damascus.

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 ASIA

OYAA/Aden, Yemen Airport closed and all flights cancelled since 21FEB due to security concerns.

LTXX/Turkey We have received several reports that Overflight Permits, which were removed as a general requirement for non-scheduled flights in 2015, are being requested by Turkey for Business Aviation aircraft, specifically M- and VP- registrations. Reports welcomed to clarify to bulletin@fsbureau.org. 

RCTP/Taipei Airport works on several parking positions may create availability issues from 04MAR-04APR especially for Airbridge gates. Check with handler.

RPHI/Manila has a radar outage on 18-19FEB meaning procedural control will affect the Luzon island area within the FIR, 10/15 minute enroute separation as standard.

UADD/Taraz, Kazakhstan has been upgraded to RFF/Rescue Fire CAT9, and with regular international flights starting in June, should have customs available. Maybe become a useful Central Asian en-route alternate.

North Korea launched a long range rocket at 0031Z on 07FEB. According to preliminary reports, the rocket passed over the Japanese island of Okinawa and landed in the Pacific Ocean. US military officials stated that the rocket did not pose a threat to the United States or allies in the region. South Korean media reported that North Korea is preparing for another nuclear test and has the technology necessary for an inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM).

RPHI/Manila FIR has begun Phase 1-b of an ADS/CPDLC trail. The specific details of the plan can be found here.
 
Wxxx/Indonesia  As of 19JAN, Mount Egon has been erupting on Flores Island, which is located east of Bali Island. Egon emitted large amounts of ash and noxious gas. As of yet, the eruption has not caused any flight delays or cancellations; however, previous volcanic eruptions in the lesser Sunda Islands have caused extended delays in Denpasar and Mataram. 
 
Zxxx/China Talks with the Zhuhai municipal government, Chinese government, Zhuhai Airport Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority China (CAAC) resulted in temporary International China Inspection and Quarantine (CIQ) services at Zhuhai Airport for non-scheduled business aviation movements. Following the approval late last month, China’s National Port Administration Office opened a temporary customs port on January 1. The approval is renewable on a six-month basis. During the “approval period” from January 1 to June 30, crew members of foreign business aviation flights can enter and exit China via the temporary business aviation port at Zhuhai Airport. 

Zxxx/China Chinese officials stated that they will allow departing flights to transit via Taiwan. Aviation officials will allow flights departing from Chongqing, Nanchang and Kunming to transit through Taipei's Taoyuan International Airport (RCTP/TPE).

RKxx/South Korea  South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare has formally declared an end to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) health threat on December 23. According to the Ministry of Health and Welfare, its decision follows World Health Organization. MERS was first confirmed in South Korea on 20MAY, and the last fatality from MERS-related complications in the country occurred on 25NOV.

Zxxx/China will mandate that its air traffic controllers use only English when communicating with pilots of any airline starting in 2017, according to the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC). The move will improve situational awareness for foreign pilots. Currently, ATC at all airports across China use English to communicate with pilots of foreign airlines and Mandarin with those flying for Chinese carriers. The CAAC will announce the exact date for implementation later, ensuring the readiness of all stakeholders involved in the process.

VTxx/Thailand The FAA has downgraded Thailand to a Category 2 after an audit of the country's Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) in October showed continued non-compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) safety standards. The FAA's move comes five months after the ICAO formally instituted a Serious Safety Concern (SSC) against Thailand for failure to adequately address shortcomings identified during a Universal Safety Oversight Audit Programme (USOAP) inspection in January.

ZUUU/Chengdu has completed the on going construction work. The parking bay has been released and is available on a first come, first serve basis. This applies to overnighting aircraft as well. 

PKWA/Bucholz has revised ATC hours from 01NOV, 0800-1230 and 1330-1600LT.

VNxx/Nepal Fuel supply update: China will supply fuel to Nepal for the first time.

VTBB/Bangkok FIR A minimum departure interval of 4-8 minutes between same direction departures is in force from 30OCT for aircraft departing VTCC VTCT VTUU VTUD VTSP VTSG VTSF VTSB VTSM AND VTSS. Delays during peak hours are expected.

VHHH/Hong Kong with effect 25OCT15 (IATA Winter 2015) will amend slot issuing procedures to give priority to operators with higher capacity aircraft, and where same types conflict for the same slot time, lower noise levels.

VHHH/Hong Kong will introduce reduced arrival spacing between aircraft from 8am on 22OCT15, with the new minima set at 3.5nm. Per procedure, a landing clearance may be issued while the runway is still occupied.



 
 PACIFIC

YMML/Melbourne will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix 17-20MAR, with additional traffic to both YMML and YMEN/Essendon during these dates.

NVVV/Port Vila On 17FEB local officials signed an agreement with a private contractor to begin repairing the runway. Several airlines suspended flights on 23JAN due to safety concerns with the airport’s runway. Aviation officials stated that the renovations should begin in March.

NFFN/Nadi, Fiji Hit by Tropical Cyclone Winston on 21FEB, while there is widespread damage throughout the Islands, most airports are open and operating again, including all international airports (NFFN/Nadi, NFNA/Suva). The following domestic airports are also open: Kadavu, Labasa, Rotuma, Labasa, Rotuma, Gau, Kadavu. Note that NFNA/Suva has no overnight parking available at present due to congestion caused by the Relief effort.

NWWW/Noumea has multiple runway (and therefore airport) closures until 25FEB, check Notams carefully if operating.

NZAA/Auckland Work is currently in progress on the threshold of RWY 23L with the threshold inset 2,270m.  The information is contained within AIP updates and not via NOTAM. Operators should note there is are no ILS approaches available at Auckland until 30MAR. While weather is usually very good during February and March operators can expect delays in poor wx.

NZQN/Queenstown is closed from 1800 each day until 31MAR for runway widening works. 

AYPY/Port Moresby Telecoms outage continues. To contact ATC Centre
use (675) 325 8704 instead of published numbers. Multiple VHF freqs out of service, use HF 5565 as alternate.

AYPY/Port Moresby has a number of common VHF frequencies out of service because of a Telecomms fault. ATC advise to call them on HF HF 5565, 8861, 6622, or 8837, if able.

NVVV/Port Vila, Vanuatu Several airlines have suspended operations here effective 01FEB16 over concerns as to the condition of the runway. Airport remains open without restriction. 

PAZA/Anchorage ARTCC has a number of new procedures and systems in place effective 17DEC, including 30/30 RNP4 separation, an update to the Track Advisory program for westbound Russian Tracks, and standard routings. Check the current PAZA NOTAMs for complete information.

Yxxx/Australia FIR & Oceanic Changes. REF: AIC H24/14. ADS-B, GNSS and Mode S Transponder Equipment Mandates. Aircraft must be equipped with the mandatory avionics by certain dates. First Implementation date is 04FEB2016.

VICG/Changigarh The new Chandigarh international airport which was originally scheduled to close for runway resurfacing which was estimated to take approx a year will in fact now remain open during the construction. Work to resurface the runway will take place without disturbing the flight operations there.

NFFF/Nadi FIR Airline operators/pilots intending to operate into Fiji domestic airspace or to transit the Nadi FIR should include their 24-Bit address in the field 18 for ATS surveillance purposes. NZZO/Auckland Oceanic FIR Met Data - change to procedure. Put simply, if you make a report on HF, no need to send a met report. If you are doing it via CPDLC, send it (at designated MET reporting points).

NFFF/Nadi FIR, Fiji ADS-B In Trail procedure trial underway effective 09JAN, reducing separation to 15NM in Oceanic Airspace for suitable aircraft.

PGUM/Agana, Guam, PGSN/Saipan, and PKMJ/Majuro have intermittent fuel shortages at present. Confirmation of fuel supply is generally only available within 72 hours of flight.

PKMJ/Majuro Construction is planned at the eastern end of RWY25; authorities have notified expected delays of up to 30mins including airborne holding.

South Pacific Tropical Cyclone Season 2015-16 began 01NOV, for warnings consult the Joint Typhoon Warning Center, Fiji's regional meteorological center responsible for tropical cyclone warnings in the South Pacific region, or Australia's Bureau of Meteorology.

New News Site: You can now read all past issues of this bulletin at our dedicated site Flight Service News, and search for information on specific airports and airspace. You can also subscribe to an RSS feed to get notified of updates.

 
                          


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