EASA Conversion Update

In their latest news release, the CAA has reminded all pilots of the upcoming restrictions that will be placed on holders of a UK CAA ‘National’ pilots licence. Please note this is different to an NPPL (National Private Pilot’s Licence) so this may apply to you. Take a moment to think about which licence you have as you may need to take action by April 2014 in order to remain valid. How to identify your licence type. Your licence will most likely fall into one of the below categories: 1. EASA Part-FCL Licence This is the newest type of licence issued. It fits onto one page and is issued in a small blue book. Generally speaking, if you have this type of licence no further action is required as you are likely to be fully up-to-date. 2. JAR-PPL Licence  This will be the most likely licence for those who first gained their licence after 2000, following the introduction of the Joint Aviation Regulations. It is characterised by a 5 year validity period. If you have this type of licence, you only need to covert over to a new EASA licence when either your existing one expires or an amedment such as adding a new rating is made. 3. UK CAA ‘National’ Licence These licences are those which were issued before the introduction of JAR-PPL licences around 2000. They are characterised by having a lifetime validity. It it these licences which are the subject of this article. 4. National Private Pilot’s Licence  A UK-only licence that is normally issued alongside a medical declaration rather than a Class 1 / 2 medical. If you hold an NPPL, you will be required to convert this to the European equivalent which is an LAPL (Light Aircraft Pilot’s Licence) by April 2015 in order to continue flying EASA aircraft (includes C152 and PA28). More information will follow on this process in due course. What’s Happening?  If you are the holder of a UK CAA ‘National’ Licence, then your licence will no longer be valid for flying EASA aircraft from 8 April 2015 onwards. C152s and PA28s are included in the definition of EASA aircarft. In order to continue flying such aircraft beyond 8 April 2015, you will need to have converted over to an EASA Part-FCL licence.  Even before this date however there are further restrictions to be aware of that begin on 8 April 2014....
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Plymouth Radar

As part of an air safety initiative and in order to promote awareness of the South Coast Danger Areas, Plymouth Military Radar have produced an information leaflet briefly outlining their role and services provided. Lt Cdr Andy Anderson (Senior Air Traffic Controller) writes, "As I am sure you are aware the airspace the butts our southern shores is a very busy environment containing a multitude of aviation and hazardous activity. The leaflet goes someway in explaining what we can do to help you, should you be flying adjacent to, or within this airspace."  Download Plymouth Military Radar...
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Lee on Solent PPR

Further to the announcement made on 17 January 2014 regarding PPR requirements at Lee-on-the-Solent Daedalus (EGHR), this memorandum provides further refinement of this policy: Prior Permission Required (PPR) will remain in force at the airfield for all out of hours operations, with exceptions applying for residents operating under a waiver system. During normal operating hours PPR is encouraged, in order to allow airfield staff to provide any essential flight safety related information, however there will be no formal requirement to obtain PPR before arriving at the airfield. These conditions during normal operating hours apply to both residents and visiting aircraft. All visitors are now to use the Tower Apron grass parking area for their aircraft when visiting the airfield, unless hosted by an alternative resident or handling agent, in which case visitors are required to inform the tower on arrival. The operation will continue to be a self-handling service only, with Britten-Norman providing an Air to Ground tower service during operational hours. The Tower Apron parking location will better serve visitors, offering a much easier and safer method of getting landside, via access to the Waterfront area of the airfield and via the Argus Gate entrance. Please note that Britten-Norman’s airfield management service applies to airside operations only and concerns all matters relating to the safe use of the airspace and airside areas. The company is not responsible for the waterfront area, general site access or for aircraft handling matters (including the collection of landing fees, which should be paid to the landlord, HCA). Visitors requiring a handling service can request assistance from Britten-Norman, however charges may apply.   Basic Additional Tower Apron Briefing Information It will remain the responsibility of the pilot to ensure his/her aircraft is parked responsibly and so as not to cause obstruction from the airfield’s RFFS response units and other aircraft. Visiting aircraft should not park on hard-standing areas of the Tower Apron, as this causes an obstruction to other users. All parking is on grassed areas and guidance may be sought by contacting the tower. Currently there are a number of fixed base aircraft based operating from the tower. These aircraft are parked in a manner which is likely to cause a taxi risk to aircraft following the taxiway centreline to Tower Apron. All visitors need to be aware of the increased wing-tip striking distance danger in this area of the airfield; pilots...
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Farnborough LARS Guide

Air Traffic Controllers at Farnborough are leading a new liaison with general aviation pilots based at local airfields such as Fairoaks. The aim of the initiative is to increase awareness of the challenges faced by both pilots and controllers, helping to make operations in the local airspace safer and more efficient.  LARS Guide As well as hosting visits to Farnborough ATC and providing Q&A sessions for local pilots, a guide has been produced by NATS to provide information and advice for pilots when using Farnborough LARS and flying around or below the LTMA (London Terminal Manoeuvring Area).  All pilot's flying from Fairoaks should take the time to familiarise themselves with the contents of this guide.  Download Farnborough LARS Guide Twitter A new twitter feed has also been set-up @NATSFarnborough that can be used to supplement your pre-flight briefing, providing you with live information on activity within the LARS sectors. Be sure to take a look! Visit Day The next visit to Farnborough ATC is scheduled for 30 January 2014 at 0930. If you would like to attend, please notify the flight centre who can advise on availability. Further dates to follow in February....
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North Pole Village RNAV

An old Christmas favourite from Jeppessen here... IMC students should ensure they arrive at their next lesson briefed for the North Pole Village RNAV (GPS) Rwy 18...
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Future Flyers and Fixers

Synergy Aviation is pleased to announce our support of the Virgin Atlantic 'Future Flyers and Fixers' event. The event, due to take place on Saturday 24th November 2012, is aimed at young persons between the ages of 13 and 25 interested in a career in aviation. Leading Flight Training Organisations and prominent persons from the airline industry will help you discover if a career in aviation is for you. Please email futureflyers.andfixers@fly.virgin.com for further information and view the event...
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