Conditional RA (Restricted Area) status
The status of restricted areas (RAs) appears in the Designated Airspace Handbook (DAH) and ERSA and is presented in a table on the VTC/VNC. This status indicates which types of restricted airspace it is possible to get a clearance through. NOTAMS are issued to list activation times and levels for military restricted airspace and must always be consulted before flights through these areas, to avoid airspace infringements.
RA conditional status legend
RA1: Pilots may flight plan through the RA and, under normal circumstances, expect a clearance from ATC.
RA2: Pilots must not flight plan through the RA unless on a route specified in ERSA GEN FPR or by agreement with the Department of Defence. However, a clearance from ATC is not assured. Other tracking may be offered through the RA on a tactical basis.
RA3: Pilots must not flight plan through the RA and clearances will not be available.
Some military airspace around Melbourne is active H24, while other airspace is activated by NOTAM and may become active at short notice. Check the status prior to going flying by checking PRD in ERSA, DAH and NOTAMs. If in doubt while airborne, check with ATC on the frequency you are on.
Multiple military restricted and danger areas exist in the vicinity of Melbourne. Pilots should check charts, NOTAMS and relevant documentation for activations.
Puckapunyal
Puckapunyal military training area is located about 40 nm north of Melbourne. The airspace is used for both firing and military flying activities. Puckapunyal is a military uncertified airport, not available for public use, that lies on the external edge of the restricted airspace. R350A (H24), R351A/B and R352 (activated daily as per ERSA and DAH) are RA3. R350B and R351B are RA2 and activated by NOTAM. Pilots need to plan carefully and be always aware of their location.
Point Cook
Point Cook R330A/B is centred on Point Cook aerodrome, is RA3 for military flying operations and is activated by NOTAM, SFC to 2,500 ft and SFC to 4,500 ft.
Western Point
Western Port R323A/B is centred on West Head at the bottom of Mornington Peninsula and is RA2. It is predominantly used on weekdays for firing and military flying activities but can be activated anytime by NOTAM. The airspace extends from the SFC to differing levels as advised by NOTAM.
Cape Schanck
Cape Schanck R339 extends south-west from Western Port/R323 and is RA2. The airspace extends from the SFC to differing levels as advised by NOTAM and can be activated anytime by NOTAM.
Hanns Inlet
Hanns Inlet R332 is in the vicinity of Crib Point, approximately 5 nm south of Tyabb aerodrome and is RA3. The airspace extends from the SFC to 2,000 ft and is active daily between 2100–1300Z (1HR earlier HDS) or as amended by NOTAM.
Swan Island
Swan Island R374 is in the vicinity of Queenscliff, at the southern end of Port Phillip Bay and is RA3. The airspace extends from the SFC to 1,500 ft and his active 24 hours a day.
East Sale
East Sale airbase is located approximately 110 nm south-east of Melbourne. When active, the CTR extends from SFC to 3,000 ft. The adjoining restricted areas R359 and R391 (NAIPS codes YMES and ESX) are RA2 for military flying. Clearance is not required for transit through R359A via the D353 VFR transit lane. Pilots need to plan carefully and always be aware of their location. Refer to ERSA for tracking, broadcast requirements and procedures.
It is the pilot’s responsibility to check and monitor the status of the restricted areas and CTRs.