The ‘problem’
At the moment, a large number of VFR aircraft fly around in class G and E airspace, squawking 1200, and are visible on radar. They generally don’t talk to us (ATC) but can often be heard making broadcasts.
When providing a radar service, the best we can do is “traffic is unidentified , at unverified level” We sometimes see unidentified aircraft enter restricted areas, but don’t know who it is.
Background
TAAATS has a ‘rad-tag’ function, which allows a controller to very quickly assign a code to an aircraft which does not have a plan in the system. This attaches a call-sign label to the track and provides Mode C data where available. The ‘tag’ is visible to all controllers within the same ‘partition’ (i.e. it is not visible to a TMA controller when it is an enroute tag and vice versa, nor is it visible to a Melbourne controller when it is a Brisbane tag. They will just see the SSR code.)
Suggested procedure 1. VFR aircraft in class E or G call centre
once with a phrase such as “ABC request SSR Code.” No broadcasts of positions reports etc. would be required.
2. With very few modifications (to software or procedures) this code could be made available pre-departure by phone, SMS, e-mail or other means.
3. “Skin” codes might be a viable option, but I am not sure if this could be done at the moment.
4. The controller rad-tags the aircraft and uses a phrase which means “identified but no radar service is being provided”.
5. The VFR aircraft monitors whichever area frequency is appropriate for their location.
6. From then on, if the VFR aircraft becomes traffic to an IFR or another VFR, or appears to be about to enter a restricted area or needs to be told anything, the controller knows who it is and can make a
directed call. The IFR aircraft can be told not only
where the traffic is, but also
who it is. The two aircraft would then be able to talk to each other to sort out any confliction.
7. Another benefit would be in the case of a VFR with an expired SARtime. A quick search of the ‘tag’ list would identify if they are still flying and where they are.
This proposal should cost next to nothing, would add an extra layer of safety, would allow us to provide a better, more specific service and would increase everyone’s situational awareness. Of course, it is limited to radar coverage, but it’s a start.
Your comments, suggestions or gratuitous insults?
