A MATZ is active when the aerodrome is open. If ATC is operating 'Tower only' at the weekend then the MATZ is still active as it exists for the protection of aicraft at critical stages of flight ie on approach, in the circuit and on climbout. It is 'owned' by the Tower Controller even if the Approach Room is manned.
However, as Chevvron says, if there is no ATC present the aerodrome may still be in use by, say, a Volunteer Glider School, then the MATZ will not be active but the ATZ still exists.
It is advisable for civil pilots (mandatory for Military) to call on the published App or Twr freq to be on the safe side, after having planned properly and checked the BINA or equivalent FLIP. You could even phone them before getting airborne. If the VGS or flying club is flying, then they may have an Air-Gnd freq published.
Last edited by orgASMic; 30th July 2009 at 15:59.
Reason: Speeling