I am a liaison between our airline and ATC. Within Europe there have been discussions about harmonizing TA/TL. Alas these are, as usual, complicated by all the countries providing input. A big obstacle is the UK in this, as usual they are being particularly obstinate. There are currently two proposals circulating. One for FL180/TA18,000. The other being FL100/TA10,000. One of the prime drivers in this matter are the future CDO (continuous descent operations).
I have been told (jokingly) by one contact that in a typical European fashion we will probably end up with FL140/TA14,000. It is sad to see this subject taking this long.
The Rocky Mountains are comparable to the Alps, and FL180/TA18,000 feet works fine over there, would seem like a simple fit.
Last edited by Otterman; 23rd August 2010 at 09:32.