SAFA Skysailor Magazine

32 SKY SAILOR January | February 2024 First military operating areas are now in force To enhance the safety of airspace users during military training or exercise activities, there is now a new type of special use airspace called a military operating area (MOA). Some military areas around Australia have now transitioned from a restricted area to an MOA and have been designated with the prefix ‘M’. These are: • • Cerberus (VIC) • • Edinburgh (SA) • • East Sale (VIC) • • Nowra (NSW) • • Williamtown (NSW) Conditions will apply when flying through MOAs. Aircraft operators should update their documentation to reflect the introduction of this new type of airspace. All operators and pilots are required to review the Aeronautical Information Package (AIP) before planning a flight. Learn more about MOAs here . Improvements to Ballina airspace come into effect from 2025 Airspace around Ballina Airport will be con- trolled by air traffic controllers from 2025. This follows an airspace review conducted in 2022 by CASA which included extensive feedback from industry and subsequent discussions with Airservices Australia on timing for the establishment of controlled airspace and air traffic services. CASA has issued a direction to establish controlled airspace from 2025. A phased approach Improvements will be implemented in two phases: • • Phase 1 – airspace reclassified and an ap- proach control service established by 12 June 2025 • • Phase 2 – establishment of new aerodrome control service no later than 27 November 2025. These changes are required to ensure the ongoing safety of passenger transport oper- ations and all airspace users in and around Ballina due to sustained and ongoing growth in air traffic. Work on an Airspace Change Proposal outlining details of the new service and aimed at ensuring it meets necessary requirements will continue throughout 2024. Find out more on the CASA website . Finally, important information for competi- tion and event organisers intending to apply for the establishment of a Temporary Danger Area in support of an exemption from carriage and use of VHF radios by their participants or competitors. From the Regulator – Information from CASA