Frequently Asked Questions – Channel Island Airspace

1. Why can’t I operate Special VFR above FL80 in Channel Islands Airspace?
From 6 March 2014, Channel Islands airspace went through a major re-classification process. The Channel Island Terminal Control Area (TMA) was established above FL80. This class A airspace precludes both VFR & Special VFR flight.

2. Do I have to file a Flight Plan to operate in the Channel Islands Airspace?
Yes, All flights which intend to operate within the Channel Islands Airspace require a Flight Plan. Flight Plans must be addressed to EGJJZTZX. Inbound traffic to Guernsey or Alderney or traffic wishing to route close to these airfields should ensure flight plans are also addressed to EGJBZTZX or EGJAZTZX respectively.
Abbreviated Flight Plans (taken over the phone) may be sufficient for some training flights; however, all flight training within the Channel Islands Airspace is subject to “Booking Out” procedures. Please contact the appropriate Air Traffic Control unit for further information.

3. Do I have to follow the standard routings?
You are required to comply with the instructions contained in your Air Traffic Control Clearance. An Air Traffic Control Officer may offer you a more direct routing dependant on the traffic situation at the time. You should never “expect” to be offered the direct route, but should plan your flight according to the standard routes indicated.

4. Will I be able to request a more direct route?
Any clearance to operate VFR/SVFR within Channel Islands Airspace is borne on the back of a request from a pilot. ATC will consider any request for a more direct routing, but as stated previously, a more direct route will only be available if the controller can accommodate it, so your pre-flight planning process should ensure you plan for the standard routes.

5. Can I operate my Permit to Fly Aircraft in Channel Islands Airspace?
If you operate your aircraft on a Permit to Fly you will require permission from the Channel Islands Director of Civil Aviation (DCA) to operate in Channel Islands Airspace. Please see the Director of Civil Aviation’s Journal available at www.cidca.aero for more information.

6. I have an NPPL, Can I fly to Jersey, Guernsey or Alderney?
The DCA for the Channel Islands has extended authorisation for UK NPPL holders to operate within the Channel Islands Airspace. NPPL holders who do not hold a certificate of ICAO compliance to fly in French Airspace MUST contact the Jersey ATC Supervisor in order to secure an arrival clearance/route which will enable the flight to remain in UK or Channel Islands Airspace.

7. Is it possible to fly in Formation in the Channel Islands Airspace?
VFR Formation flights are permitted in Channel Islands CTR/CTA under standard UK regulations. Formation flight under Special VFR is prohibited. Please Note: Formation landings and departures are prohibited at Jersey – formations will need to split before landing and form up after take off.

8. Our local Flying Club would like to organise a club trip to your island, is this possible? What do you require from the organiser?
Club Fly-ins are normally not a problem, however, we do ask organisers to contact Air Traffic Control Operations department as early as possible in order that suitable plans can be put in place to manage the expected air traffic.

9. What level of Service can I expect outside of Channel Islands Airspace?
Jersey ATC will ONLY provide a “BASIC” service outside of the Channel Islands Airspace to aircraft in the UK FIR and a “Flight Information service” to those in the Brest FIR.

10. Do you provide a Special Use Airspace Crossing Service?
No. Special Use Airspace Crossing Service (SUACS) for the Danger Areas North of Channel Islands Airspace is provided by Plymouth Military on 124.150 MHz when open. Pre-flight information regarding the status of these Danger Areas may be obtained from Plymouth Operations on +44 (0) 1752 557550.

11. Where can I file a flight plan? Guernsey Flight Briefing Unit, Alderney Tower, AFPEX (Jersey Aero Club), AFPEX (own account online if available), EuroFPL (own account online), FAX to Jersey ATC (minimum 2 hours notice required)

12. Where can I get additional help with Flight Planning Issues?
Guernsey Flight Briefing Unit, Alderney Tower, CAA Flight Planning Guide, Jersey Flight Planning (Tel. only: +44 (0)1534 446080)