ABOVE: The proximity of Redhill to Gatwick presents several challenges
The Airspace and Safety Initiative (ASI) recently released an updated infringement hotspot document intended to address the complex interaction between Gatwick Airport’s very busy controlled airspace and operations at nearby Redhill aerodrome. The revised guidance aims to help GA pilots understand the local airspace structure, and it reviews common causes of infringements and recommended best practices. According to ASI, the proximity of Redhill to Gatwick’s busy class D airspace continues to present challenges to some pilots, particularly during circuit work, helicopter training and transits around the aerodrome.
The new document provides pilots with enhanced visual aids, clarifying explanations of vertical and lateral limits and it shows scenario-based examples illustrating how inadvertent infringements typically occur. The update also highlights the importance of accurate altitude monitoring and the correct use of Redhill’s procedures.
ASI emphasises standard mitigations which should be used to avoid infringing: those include checking that you have the correct QNH, obtaining either a Basic or Traffic Service from Farnborough, and pre-planning routes that keep pilots well clear of controlled airspace boundaries. Pilots operating in this very busy area are encouraged to review the new hotspot document before flying, incorporate its recommendations into their planning and share the materials with instructors and students.
PHOTO: UK AIP via Redhill Aerodrome
