CASA Media Release - 16 September 1999
Ayres Rock airport radio service trial
A trial of a new aviation communication service began at Ayers Rock Airport this week.
Pilots are now being given detailed operational information at Ayers Rock Airport by a ground based radio operator during the aerodrome’s busiest periods.
The six week trial of the ground-air radio service will make flying in the area of Ayers Rock Airport easier for pilots.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) has approved the trial of the service – which is being provided by a private communications and aviation infrastructure company on behalf of the airport owner.
CASA’s Director of Aviation Safety, Mick Toller, says the trial will provide important information on the value of ground-air services at busy regional airports.
Mr Toller says the trial has the support of the major airlines as well as other regular users of Ayers Rock Airport.
“CASA gave the go-ahead for this trial at Ayers Rock because the airport is already busy and has a mix of airline jets, charter and private operations,” Mr Toller says.
“The ground-air radio service provides pilots with information on other traffic on the ground and in the air, as well as the latest weather conditions at the aerodrome.
“During the six week trial CASA is surveying pilots using Ayers Rock Airport to find out the effectiveness of the service and the benefits to safety.
“The information gained from the trial will be used by CASA in developing new standards for communications and air traffic services across Australia.
“I’m pleased to say initial responses to the service from airline and general aviation pilots as well as the airport operator have been very positive”
The ground-air service operates at Ayers Rock between 10.00 am and 3.00 pm seven days a week.
Outside these hours an aerodrome frequency response unit operates so pilots can confirm they are on the correct radio frequency for Ayers Rock Airport.
Media contact
Peter Gibson
ph 02 6217 1015
mobile 0419 296 446
Ref: ME9945PR