CASA warns pilots on radio use at non-towered aerodromes

CASA has issued a warning to pilots to use their radios properly at non-towered aerodromes.

CASA is warning pilots of the dangers of failing to use their radios properly, while also warning that the correct alerted see and avoid procedures must be adhered to.

The warnings follow continuing reports of break downs in separation and near miss incidents in the airspace at non-towered aerodromes. CASA says incident reports show some pilots are operating within the vicinity of a non-towered aerodrome without correctly monitoring the aerodrome frequency.

“Pilots must check relevant documents such as ERSA and NOTAMS for up to date information on frequencies,” the regulator explains. “Information from broadcasts on the local frequency, air-ground radio services and transponders increases a pilot’s chance of detecting other aircraft by a factor of eight.”

CASA adds that alerted see and avoid, which involves looking out of the window for other aircraft as well as using the radio, is a vital part of safe flight.

“Pilots are being told it is vital not to be distracted while keeping a watch for other traffic and making radio calls. The theme for CASA’s campaign to warn pilots about the dangers of incorrect radio use and failure to follow alerted see and avoid procedures is ‘Be heard, be seen, be safe’.”

There’s lots of information on this matter available for private pilots on the CASA website.