Whilst the wheels of beaurocracy turn slowly, they at least seem to be turning, and a recent report from ACUSNA demonstrates that some people do understand the issues, and how best to resolve them.
ACNUSA = Authority for the control of noise disturbances at airports. It’s a French semi-governmental agency (directors appointed by the minister of transport) with considerable “clout”.
Translating from the French. Their glossy reads in summary:
• ACNUSA requests studies to raise the TA to above 10,000 ft for reasons of flight safety and better noise profiles near ILS intercept,
• From July to November 2003 studies (inter-alia; Paris ACC, Paris Approach Control, etc.) were undertaken and considered 6,000': 10,000': and 18,000'.
• Results were presented to ACNUSA 22-06-04,
• 10,000 ft is worse choice due to the Paris TMA airspace issues,
• 6,000 ft is an acceptable alternative which will improve upon the existing situation and which is relatively easy to implement,
• 18,000 ft is the best choice. However it clearly links 18,000 ft with the need to do this on a European-wide level given the interface problems.
As an outcome of the study the ACNUSA recommends to the French DGCA to undertake as a matter of urgency the necessary actions to address the French “European Neighbours”.
Report can be found at: [URL=http://www.acnusa.fr/rapports/pdf_2004/miseenoeuvrerecommandations2004.pdf[/URL]
On another front, the SE European region seem to be mustering their effort, and about to start consultations on how best they can address the Common TA issues. This is also a good sign that the old guard may be losing its grip on influence, and safety and sanity issues will, at last, prevail.
