But the airport wasn't closed. It's up to the crew to decide whether the conditions meet the limits for their operation, not ATC. As an example, and I'm not saying QT has a curfew as such, but in WLG, ATC will clear you for takeoff or landing during the curfew. It is up to the pilot to ensure he does not break the rules. I wouldn't be too quick to blame ATC for allowing them to take-off. I'm not sure they even have the right to deny you take-off clearance unless the airport is actually closed. In my experience, NZ ATC are one of the least malicious around.
Last edited by Offcut; 30th Mar 2013 at 21:08.