Airspace safety information and resources for pilots
The risk of mid-air collision remains high for Class G airspace users, despite such advances as the carriage and use of electronic conspicuity devices. Although it is five years since the last fatal mid-air collision in the UK and longer since a mid air collision involving a glider in the UK, the UK Airprox Board (supported by the BGA) continues to examine hundreds of ‘near misses’ every year involving GA aircraft. 8% of GA fatal accidents result from mid air collision.
The CAA’s Mid-Air Collision Challenge Group is a key part of their mid-air collision prevention programme. It includes a mix of representatives from the civil and military sectors, bringing together representatives from GA associations, NATS, the Ministry of Defence, the CAA, Military Aviation Authority and the UK Airprox Board. The group has recommended some key sources of safety information to help pilots reduce the risk of mid-air collision including The SkyWay Code which provides easy, quick access to private flying rules, regulations and best practice and Safety Sense leaflets include specific guidance on a range of subjects including care of passengers, flight under VFR, radiotelephony, loss of control and moving maps. The Airspace & Safety Initiative (ASI) is a joint CAA, NATS and MoD resource. It includes a wealth of content and guidance often created in collaboration with members of local GA communities from around the country working to share their experiences and knowledge. Recent additions include advice on Radio Telephony pre-fight planning written by a current Flight Instructor and Flight Radio Telephony Operators Licence (FRTOL) Examiner.