This should make Dick happy!
CASA media release - Thursday 15 May 2008
Release of Avalon aeronautical study
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority has today finalised an aeronautical study into airspace in and adjacent to Avalon Airport.
CASA CEO Bruce Byron says the study found that to meet changes in the predicted growth of operations at Avalon Airport, controlled airspace and associated air traffic control services should be activated at appropriate times to accommodate passenger transport operations.
“As part of this assessment, CASA was asked to consider the results of an aeronautical study conducted by Airservices Australia in September 2006 and determine whether additional measures should be introduced to meet increasing airport demand,” Mr Byron says.
“The number of passengers using the airport has increased significantly since then and the airport currently supports over 1 million passengers a year, with this figure projected to increase to 1.4 million later in 2008.
“Operating arrangements at the airport currently provide for controlled airspace to be activated and air traffic control services provided only on request.
“With the projected increase in aircraft movements at Avalon Airport over the coming years the study found that a move to controlled airspace is warranted.
“The airport is a popular location for flying training schools, freight operators and general aviation aircraft attending special events and provides a maintenance base for medium to heavy jet aircraft.
“Passenger-carrying operations are CASA's number one priority and changes to airspace arrangements at Avalon Airport will ensure the continued safety of passengers as air traffic increases.
“In conducting the study CASA consulted extensively with airlines, local industry, service providers and airport management and publicly invited input from other interested parties.
“Now the study has been finalised CASA will be working closely with Airservices Australia and Avalon Airport management to ensure the changes are implemented safely in a structured and timely manner.”
The full Aeronautical Study of Avalon is available on the CASA website.
Media contact:
Michelle Harris
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: MR4908
I assume the $100K that Dick donates to kick the tower off will ensure he gets free landing/airways charges!