Departure and tracking – south-east

All VFR aircraft are required to depart Darwin CTR to the south-east via Channel Island and Lake Dean and then via VFR route 3 (Adelaide River Bridge) or 4 (Manton Dam). Aircraft tracking via the VFR route can expect to be issued an initial heading on departure (e.g. Heading 250) on climb to 2,000 ft. Expect to contact Darwin departures on 123.0 on direction from TWR. Keep a good lookout at all times around Channel Island as it is a well-used reporting point for helicopters as well as fixed-wing aircraft.

If issued a heading by TWR, maintain that until ATC uses the phrase ‘Resume own navigation’ at which point they will state where to track next.

Ensure you have checked the status of the various restricted areas south of Bynoe Harbour before you take up your desired onward track. Monitor Brisbane Centre 118.15 when clear of controlled airspace.

Enlarge image
A map of Darwin airspace showing a plane departing Darwin Airport, then tracking south to Channel Island and then south-east to Lake Dean

A map of Darwin airspace showing a plane departing Darwin Airport, then tracking south to Channel Island and then south-east to Lake Dean.

An aerial view of Lake Dean
Lake Dean
Updated: 12 November 2024
Online version available at: https://www.casa.gov.au//resources-and-education/publications-and-resources/industry-guides-and-publications/pilot-guides/stay-ontrack-series/stay-ontrack-flying-darwin-region/departure-and-tracking-south-east
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