Wed Jun 16, 2021 12:29 pm
#1853138
rikur_ wrote:OP sounds a bit like requesting a MATZ transit and getting a response of 'Your MATZ transit is approved, not below 3000ft' ..... i.e. your MATZ transit isn't approved, you'll have to go over the top.akg1486 wrote:Ibra wrote:
For VFR you have to clarify with a ATC for next handover before reaching zone boundary or ask to change frequency, I learned this the hardway, stuck at airspace boundary between Murcia & Alicante and between Cardiff & Bristol, in both cases, I got cleared hastly into airspace before getting thrown out of airspace on 90deg turns while going down like a brick...
I get the feeling that most VFR pilots aren't aware of this. Under IFR, the controller shall keep track of necessary future clearances, but under VFR it's up to the pilot to request a frequency change with enough time to reasonably expect to get the next clearance or time to take evasive action. It may vary depending on where in the world you are, but where I've flown (including a big piece of continental Europe) the ATS-unit giving you service normally prompts you to change. But if they don't, it's up to you.
I wasn't aware of the background on this. I was aware of the inconsistency that some days I'll get handover to the next unit, others get asked to freecall, and occasionally asked if I want a handover.
Leads back to a previous question - as a pilot is there any benefit of requesting a VFR transit, as opposed to an IFR transit?
If it's IMC, it has to be under IFR (or maybe SVFR for G-D-G zones)
If weather is sunny and back to back airspace above 3kft (e.g. Stansted & Luton, Bristol & Cardiff, Bournemouth & Southampton), I ask for IFR transits or don't go inside, usually it comes with handover
If it's Class G-D-G and sunny, I just ask VFR transit, it makes life easier for ATC as they don't have to provide separation...
You can't fly VFR or "IFR pop-up transits" for very long above 4kft in UK without hitting Class A at some point (you need IFR Eurocontrol FPL, airways join clerance preferably before starting the engine)
Elsewhere in Europe (except Spain, Italy, Paris), you can pretty much fly VFR on a straight lines if you turn up on at the gates at FL100 asking for VFR transit and saying you don't wanna go down, just claim there are one or two clouds bellow