Just be aware that we don't have "band-boxing" (where tx's are recycled onto our other frequencies) and our a/c are invariably on UHF. If we don't reply instantly, wait a few minutes before trying again. Also, listen very carefully to the callsign to which we are talking - we can transmit on several different frequencies at once, and just because you transmitted doesn't mean that the first reply you hear will be directed at you. In general, call us in plenty of time, (ie at least 10 miles away) and you're likely to get what you want. Do be prepared to be asked to change your level (tell us if you can't maintain VMC), and when you are asked what type of service you require, don't say "MATZ transit" - that doesn't exist. It's FIS, RIS or RAS. Not all military fields are LARS units, but nearly all have radar, and speaking for myself in E Anglia, I would far rather provide a service to all a/c anywhere near me than vector a jet miles out of his way just because a 7000's floating around just outside my ATZ.
Although civvy a/c are only legally obliged to stay out of the ATZ, I would strongly recommend that the safest course of action is to call and call early. I've often seen a/c overfly us , over 2000' (outside ATZ so legal) and over 3000 (outside MATZ - even better) without any contact but the pilots of those a/c have no way of knowing about the f/j punching out of low level at 400kts and going vertical unless they talk to me.
Anyway, try this -
XXX approach, Callsign
Callsign, xxx approach, go ahead
Callsign
Type
Departure airfield
Destination
Postition
Height
Pressure setting (in numbers, not "on the London QNH"!)
Type of service required
+ req MATZ transit (if required).
Please don't feel you should only call us for MATZ transit - we'll quite happily work you until you fall off our screen (generally 40 miles radius) or a sensible time to hand you over to the next unit. A/c on a radar service will recieve a radar handover, those on a FIS will be instructed to squawk 7000 and freecall (the apprpriate unit and frequency).
Also -
If you're unsure of your position - tell us. We can nearly always find you.
If you need a steer - we can do that too.
Make a visit to your nearest unit and see for yourself the people and the toys we've got.
We don't bite, but we do like chocolate biscuits and doughnuts!
Safe flying!
(from ATCO, PPL, IMC, Multi)
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Once more unto the breach, Dear Friends...