Controlled airspace around Canberra is a relatively basic setup, consisting of the CTA steps from 40 DME with the CB Control Zone Class C airspace 0 to 3500 inclusive.

Canberra Approach is responsible for Class A and C airspace generally within 30NM of Canberra (excluding a section around Yass) up to FL245. Melbourne Centre is responsible for the step between 30 and 40 DME and the Yass portion.

The CTA steps are designed to closely contain the climb/descent profiles of typical RPT aircraft and to accommodate the high terrain within the vicinity of Canberra.

Canberra Tower is the controlling authority for the Control Zone and clearance requests at or below 3500 should be made directly to the tower on 118.7.

Tower hours of operation: refer to ERSA.

 

Where do VCAs occur around Canberra?

Most Common

• The majority of VCAs that do occur around Canberra are normally associated with pilots not calling for clearance early enough. Radar coverage is very good and therefore there is normally no problem with calling early for clearance into or to transit Canberra airspace.

 

Care should be taken if referring to GPS distances around Canberra .

Particular attention should be taken in regards to the CTA steps, especially those to the East and South East of Canberra at approx 20 NM CB.

The Canberra aerodrome reference point is located at the runways intersection, with the VOR/DME co-sited approx 1.5 NM north of the runways intersection.

 

Recommended VFR routes clear of the Canberra Control zone:

There is no published recommended VFR route to remain clear of the Canberra Control Zone, however there are many suitable visual and GPS points which allow for such tracking.

If planning to overfly the Canberra CTR it is probable to expect radar vectoring around the approach/departure paths of the active runways.

 

For those aircraft conducting operations in the Barton Training Area there is now a split in the area frequencies.

Pilots are therefore reminded to be diligent in monitoring the correct frequency or frequencies.

 

Several Restricted/Danger Areas exist within the Canberra area, main ones include:

• R455 – live firing activity
  
• R424 – electromagnetic radiation hazard ( radio telescope )
  
• R425 – electromagnetic radiation hazard
  
• R426 – laser space tracking NOTAM

Note: Refer to ERSA and published NOTAMs

Canberra controlled airspace consists of the following ATC positions:

• Approach East – 124.5
  
• Approach West – 125.9
  
• Canberra Tower – 118.7
  
• FIA ( Melbourne Centre ) – 125.9 outside of Canberra Tower Hours

When the Approach positions are combined the frequencies operate on automatic re-transmit.

 

Note that ATC is there to help if needed, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance. Also, ATC are not the police of the air, they simply try to make all operations as safe as possible.