Safety in the vicinity of non-towered aerodromes - Australian ...

elated occurrences raised in this report that have occurred frequently at nontowered
aerodromes.
However, the actions of individual pilots always dictate the overall safety of
operations at these aerodromes. The ATSB reiterates the need for pilots to:
• improve their situational awareness, and ensure awareness of their presence by
others using these aerodromes
• reduce the frequency of common occurrence types in the vicinity of these
aerodromes such as:
– ineffective communication between pilots
– reduced separation between aircraft
– incorrect assessment of other aircrafts’ positions and intentions
– relying on the radio as a substitute for an effective visual lookout
– failing to follow published procedures
• be aware of their responsibilities when operating in the vicinity of non-towered
aerodromes by being familiar with the CAR 166 non-towered aerodrome
procedures, through CAAPs 166-1 and 166-2.
Non-towered aerodromes and the use of CTAF have been, and will continue to be a
central component to the Australian airspace system. Operations to, from, and in the
vicinity of these aerodromes will remain safe and efficient with good airmanship,
use of see-and-avoid strategies, and effective monitoring/broadcasting on the CTAF
by pilots. Ongoing monitoring by CASA of the effectiveness of non-towered
aerodrome procedures and radio/broadcast requirements also plays an important
role; as does investigation by the ATSB in cases where accidents and serious
incidents occur at non-towered aerodromes.
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