Entering MNPS (ATPL OPS)

[PintofT]

Upon reaching the entry point but having yet to receive clearance to enter do you enter as per your filed flight plan or hold until a clearance is received?

Notes say one thing and the question bank says another!

Many thanks,

PoT

[Boxshifter]

According to the NAT MNPSA Manual Edition 2008 it depends on the first OCA on this flight.

If oceanic clearance is not received prior to reaching the OCA boundary:

Shanwick OCA:

• contact Domestic ATC
• request instructions to remain clear of Oceanic Airspace
• await Oceanic Clearance.

All other NAT OCAs:

• flight may enter whilst awaiting receipt of Oceanic Clearance.

The original text can be found in the MNPSA Manual Edition 2008 on page 23 chapter 5 "Oceanic ATC Clearances" 5.1.11:

5.1.11 If pilots have not received their Oceanic Clearance prior to reaching the Shanwick OCA boundary, they must contact Domestic ATC and request instructions to enable them to remain clear of Oceanic Airspace whilst awaiting such Clearance. This is not the case for other NAT OCAs into any of which flights may enter whilst pilots are awaiting receipt of a delayed Oceanic Clearance. Pilots should always endeavour to obtain Oceanic Clearance prior to entering these other NAT OCAs; however if any difficulty is encountered the pilot should not hold while awaiting Clearance unless so directed by ATC. In such circumstances, pending receipt of the Oceanic Clearance, the aircraft should continue to maintain the flight level cleared by the current control authority.

[PintofT]

Thanks for that Boxshifter!