I'm all for more class D.....BUT class D with an upper limit and without overlaying Class A.
Take Bournemouth and Southampton, you have bournemouth class D up to 2000' then Solent on top of that and finally class A above this. This leaves nowhere for VFR pilots to go other than through the Class D, which is fine, unless you don't get clearance. However, the US model of things has class C airspace, generally up to 4000' above airport elevation, 10nm radius, possibly with a few lugs. This is used to contain the instrument procedures for the particular airport, so protecting IFR traffic from VFR traffic. However, it allows the VFR pilot to transit overhead, without danger to IFR traffic arriving and leaving, without any contact with ATC(ie if they are too busy). If the VFR pilot wants to transit through the class C then a clearance and radar service is provided. Same goes for US class B airspace. Low alt airways in the US are class E, allowing VFR traffic to use them or not.
..um what was the question...oh yea, chat with ATC
Cheers
EA
