Traffic Service

Traffic Service

2.0 Definition

A Traffic Service is a surveillance-based ATS, where in addition to the provisions of a Basic Service, the controller provides specific surveillance-derived traffic information to assist the pilot in avoiding other traffic. Controllers may provide headings and/or levels for the purposes of positioning and/or sequencing; however, the controller is not required to achieve deconfliction minima, and the pilot remains responsible for collision avoidance.

2.1 Provision

A Traffic Service shall only be provided by a controller with access to an ATS surveillance system.

Flight rules and meteorological conditions

Traffic Service is available under IFR outside controlled airspace in any meteorological conditions, or under VFR. If a controller issues a heading and/or level that would require flight in IMC, a pilot who is not suitably qualified to fly in IMC shall inform the controller and request alternative instructions. Pilots should be aware that a Traffic Service might not be appropriate for flight in IMC or where lookout is significantly constrained by other factors, when other ATSs are available.

2.2 Identification

The controller shall identify the aircraft, inform the pilot that they are identified, and maintain identity. If identity is lost the pilot shall be informed and the controller shall attempt to re-establish identity as soon as practicable.

2.3 Traffic information

The controller shall pass traffic information on relevant traffic, and shall update the traffic information if it continues to constitute a definite hazard, or if requested by the pilot. However, high controller workload and RTF loading may reduce the ability of the controller to pass traffic information, and the timeliness of such information.

Traffic is normally considered to be relevant when, in the judgement of the controller, the conflicting aircraft’s observed flight profile indicates that it will pass within 3 NM and, where level information is available

2.4 Deconfliction

Deconfliction is not provided under a Traffic Service. If a pilot requires deconfliction advice outside controlled airspace, Deconfliction Service shall be requested. The controller shall make all reasonable endeavours to accommodate this request as soon as practicable.

2.5 Terrain

Subject to ATS surveillance system coverage, Traffic Service may be provided below ATC unit terrain safe levels; however, pilots remain responsible for terrain clearance at all times. Other than when following a notified instrument flight procedure, a pilot intending to descend below the ATC unit terrain safe level shall be reminded that they remain responsible for terrain clearance

2.6 Headings

A pilot may operate under their own navigation or a controller may provide headings for the purpose of positioning, sequencing, or as navigational assistance.

When operating under their own navigation, pilots may alter course as required; however, unless safety is likely to be compromised, pilots shall not change their general route or manoeuvring area without first advising and obtaining a response from the controller.

When following an ATC heading, unless safety is likely to be compromised, a pilot shall not change heading without first advising and obtaining a response from the controller

2.7 Levels

Pilots may select their own operating levels or may be provided with level allocations by the controller for the positioning and/or sequencing of traffic or for navigational assistance. If a level is unacceptable to the pilot, they shall advise the controller immediately.

Unless safety is likely to be compromised, a pilot shall not change level or level band without first advising and obtaining a response from the controller, aircraft may be co-ordinated against other airspace users without recourse to the pilot.

In order to reduce RT loading and increase flexibility, pilots who require to frequently change level whilst receiving a Traffic Service should request a level ‘block’ to operate within.