Document No: AAL-MS- Manual 081-A June 2018 CEO General

Document No: AAL-MS-Manual—081-A

Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO

Owner/Author: General Manager Unicom

Unicom Operations

Controlled copy available electronically. Printed copy is current on date of printing only – 22/11/2018 Page 1 of 28


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


PAGE CHECK LIST

Page No. Contents Eff. Date Page No. Contents Eff. Date i ii iii iv 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Page Checklist Amendment Record Authorisation Contents Ardmore Unicom Service Service provided Procedures Incident Reporting Duty Requirements Watch Change Over AWIB Emergencies Emergencies Emergencies Communications Test Ground Vehicles ELT Signals Runway Change Proc. Runway Change Proc. Equipment Equipment Training Practicum Curriculum Annual Proficiency Appendices index

3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011 3 February 2011

App A-1 App A-2 App A-3 App A-4 App A-5 App A-5a App A-6 App A-6a App A-7 App A-8 App A-9 App A-10 App B-1 App B-2 App B-3 App B-4 App B-5 App C-1 App C-2 App D-1 App D-2

Movement Record AWIB Broadcast Form Bird Hazard Report Emerg. Message Form Operational Occurrence Occurrence Class. Airside Briefing Sheet Airport Contractors Guide NOTAM Request Form Complaint Action Form Emerg. Proc. Chklist Emerg. Q Checklist Met Display Reference CAA approval – UNICOM & AWIB callsigns Airways Directive Sartime Movement Data What is a NOTAM Pos'n Descr. (GM) Pos'n Descr. (Operator) AR Crash Map 1 AR Crash Map 2

3 February 2011 3 February 2011 8 April 2008 8 April 2008 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 31 July 1999 8 April 2008 8 April 2008 8 April 2008 8 April 2008 3 February 2011 8 April 2008 1 Feb 2007 8 April 2008 1 Aug 2002 31 July 99


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


This manual is issued by Ardmore Airport Ltd as the Airport Authority responsible under the Airport Authorities Act 1966 for the provision and conduct of those services prescribed herein. This manual specifies the standard of UNICOM service required to be provided by Ardmore Unicom Services Limited (AUSL) and AUSL staff at Ardmore Airport and takes into account those standards, where specified by the Civil Aviation Authority, or in the absence of any such standard, the requirements of the Ardmore User group to ensure Good Aviation Practices and flight safety are maintained. This manual may be subject to change and amendment without notice by the Airport Authority to ensure compliance with CAA rule changes or recommendations from industry. Any amendment to the manual is at the sole discretion of the Ardmore Airport Authority. For further information contact: Ardmore Airport Limited P.O. Box 72 253, Papakura AUCKLAND 2244 Authorising Officer: D. Marcellus Chief Executive Ardmore Airport Authority


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


1 Definition

UNICOM is an aeronautical service to aerodrome traffic which is designed to fill the gap between aerodrome flight information service (AFIS) and no service at all. The acronym is derived from an American abbreviation for ‘Universal Communications’ The service is supplied under contract to Ardmore Airport Ltd. A comparison of Unicom with Flight Information Service and Air Traffic Control is:

UNICOM Services (Uncertificated)

Aerodrome Flight Information Service (Part 172 Certificated)

Air Traffic Control Services (Part 172 Certificated)

Non-certificated but operates within the requirements of Part 139.

Certificated under Part 172 and uses certificated Part 171 communications equipment.

Hours of service decided by operator and published accordingly.

Hours of service in accordance with certification and published accordingly.

May advise the preferred runway in use.

Designates the preferred runway in use.

Designates the controlled runway.

May provide local basic weather reports (BWR). If Part 174 certificated, provides meteorological information in accordance with certification.

Provides meteorological information in accordance with Part 174 certification.

Operator has staff training requirements under Part 139, but not certificated to Part 65 standards.

Operators certificated to Part 65.

Communications equipment does not have to be Part 171 certificated.

Communications equipment Part 171 certificated.

May relay whereabouts of known aircraft operating within the vicinity of the aerodrome.

Provides traffic information within the vicinity of the aerodrome.

Provides aerodrome control service, traffic information, and traffic avoidance advice.

May provide information relating to the physical characteristics of the aerodrome, and hazards to navigation in the vicinity of the aerodrome.

Provides information relating to the physical characteristics of the aerodrome, and hazards to navigation in the vicinity of the aerodrome.

May relay request for flight plan termination to National Briefing Office. (refer Appendix 1)

May be contacted to close or amend flight plans.

May provide a flight-following service in accordance with the requirements of Part 119. May provide a service to alert emergency services.

Provides an alerting service and may activate an aerodrome emergency service.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


2 Service Provided:

Unicom is able to provide a range of services which include:

Aerodrome and Weather Information Broadcast (AWIB) automatic data is updated every 60 seconds.

During UNICOM hours of service, AWIB also broadcasts general information such as runway in use, airport serviceability and airspace use e.g.: G276 – Hunua General Aviation Area.

General weather information in the form of a Basic Weather Report (BWR) and advice of significant changes in airport weather conditions.

General information on reported aerodrome traffic when requested.

Automatic or manual confirmation of correct radio frequency and equipment serviceability by Automatic Frequency Response Unit (AFRU or ‘Beep Back’ ) or vocal response.

Positive and timely activation of emergency services.

Guidance for pilots who are unfamiliar with the airport.

Arranging refueling, taxis, etc on request.

Assistance to ground vehicles

Facilitate runway changes in liaison with circuit traffic (note: UNICOM is not permitted to designate runway in use)

Alert general traffic to arrival/departure of priority aircraft; such as, ambulance flights, high performance twins, and jets etc.

Monitor reported traffic movements in/out of Low Flying Zone, Hunua Ranges & Helicopter training area Whitford Forest; this is to enable UNICOM to provide information regarding the status of these areas and does not constitute flight following.

NOTAM activation relating to the airport.


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Unicom Operations


Procedures:

2.1 Radio Telephony:

Standard RT procedures as per the NZAIP are to be used at all times.

2.1.1 Call Sign: “Ardmore Unicom” 2.1.2 Permitted: The following information may be provided:

- advice of runway in use - crosswind component (AWIB derived only) - relay of radio transmissions - general traffic e.g.: number of aircraft reported in circuit - relayed traffic information at pilot request - taxi direction assistance - general weather information in the form of a Basic Weather Report - Ardmore NOTAM information - precautionary information e.g.: ‘caution aircraft reported crossing

grass’ - educational messages e.g.: ‘no requirement to call “Ardmore Traffic”

twice when operating within the MBZ’

2.1.3 Not Permitted: The following information must not be transmitted:

- instructions to aircraft - specific traffic information e.g.: Cessna in your 2 o’clock, 2 miles. - personal comments or chat. Reference: CAA AC139-12 GM 139.353 (e) (6)

IMPORTANT NOTE

While it remains the pilot's responsibility for deciding how the information received is to be used, what you transmit could influence

the decision.

PROVIDE AUTHORISED INFORMATION ONLY.


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


2.1.4 Priorities: - Aircraft calls have priority over telephone calls - Traffic priorities when applied are as specified in the Ardmore Operations

Manual

2.1.5 Imminent Danger of Collision Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 2.1.2 to 2.1.4, all duty personnel who in the

course of carrying out their duties become aware of or notice a potentially dangerous situation developing, are to take all reasonable steps to advise the aircraft concerned before the problem becomes more serious.

Having been advised of any potential problem, if the pilot(s) then chose to take a different

course of action, that action will remain the pilot's responsibility.


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


2.2 Incident Reporting

Regulatory non-compliance shall be reported in accordance with CAR Part 12. Initial investigation will be carried out by UNICOM General Manager and AAL who will file a CAA 005 as required. Unicom operator action is to:

- Notify UNICOM General Manager - Enter relevant details in the UNICOM log book - Complete Operational Occurrence report (OOR) log and allocate

sequential OOR number - Complete Operational Occurrence Report form (appendix A) - Email OOR Form to the Airport Operations Supervisor and UNICOM

General Manager

2.3 Quality Assurance

An integral part of Ardmore Airport Ltd’s operations is a Quality Assurance programme which requires the timely completion of all relevant forms as per Appendix A. All duty personnel are to ensure that the forms are correctly completed in a legible manner and forwarded to the Unicom General Manager. Attention to detail is very important, particularly dates, times and signatures. A monthly report of Unicom operations including all report/check sheets is to be provided to Ardmore Airport Ltd by the General Manager.

2.4 Medical Fitness

Unicom operators must ensure that they do not carry out Unicom duties while medically impaired and/or under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Any operator unsure of their medical status is to seek advice from the Unicom General Manager prior to commencing duties allowing, when possible sufficient time to roster replacement staff if required. Operators must take care to ensure that work commitments or other activities do not result in the operator being fatigued while on UNICOM duty. Operators are to ensure adequate rest periods including adequate days off and annual leave entitlements are taken.


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


2.5 Standard of Dress

Smart casual business dress is required while on UNICOM Duty. UNICOM often receives VIP visitors therefore professional presentation by UNICOM staff is important. Pilot’s uniform or normal business attire is required. Tee shirts, torn and or faded jean, jandals, bare feet, etc are not acceptable forms of dress.


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.0 Duty Requirements:

3.1 General:

3.1.1 Unicom operators are to maintain a constant visual and listening watch of aircraft circuit traffic,

runway traffic, and ground movements including aircraft, vehicles and pedestrians. 3.1.2 While there are likely to be more than one person in the tower at times it remains the duty

operator's responsibility to ensure the quality of the service provided is not impaired by unreasonable distraction. Access for other than approved training or official business is therefore at the duty operator's or instructor's discretion. Personal guests are not permitted while official visitors and/or VIPs are visiting UNICOM.

3.2 Logbook:

Logbook entries are to be made on opening, staff changeover and closing the Unicom

service daily. Also enter details of any incident, work in progress (where it affects

operations), equipment unserviceabilities, NOTAMS issued etc. This includes logging

details of any maintenance conducted on the facility or equipment, maintenance start and

finish times are to be logged. Log book entries are to be made in blue or black ink; errors

are to be corrected by striking through the error with a single line to maintain legibility,

not scribbled out.

Times are to be recorded in local time.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.3 Visitors Book:

All visitors to the UNICOM tower must sign the Visitors Book and record their contact details. Large groups, i.e. school groups, only the supervising adult needs to sign the Visitors Book.

3.4 Movements:

Aircraft movement strips are to be completed for each flight. Data recorded shall include callsign (and registration if different from callsign), take-off and final landing times in local time, the number of movements for the flight and any other relevant information. This data shall then be transcribed into the Excel Database movements record spreadsheet when time permits. UNICOM operators are to ensure that information relayed to pilots is transmitted without change; CAA rule 139.353 states: 139.353 (C) A person providing or operating a UNICOM or AWIB service must ensure that the UNICOM or AWIB service does not - (1) transmit erroneous or misleading information; or (2) change the information received during onward transmission; The progress strip system used by Ardmore UNICOM provides for an efficient method of recording pilot broadcast of position and intention information accurately. If in any doubt regarding the accuracy of this information, ask the pilot to repeat/clarify their position and intentions before relaying this information to another pilot.

Additional references: Appendix B-4 CAA AC139-12 GM 139.353 (c) (1) & AMC 139.353 (c) (2)

3.5 Opening Watch:

Self brief on logbook and sign on watch. Check message book Check NOTAM clipboard for current or upcoming NOTAMs Turn on Met screen Listen to Auckland ATIS 127.8 to check QNH and reported 2000ft wind Verify accuracy of displayed QNH. i.e.: crosscheck against Short &

Mason barometer ( 1 hectopascal) or Auckland ATIS 127.8 MHz Update AWIB Radio check 118.1Mhz via AFRU Set Standby to monitor 121.5Mhz Prepare Flight Progress Strips and open excel movement spreadsheet,

check date is correct for data entry


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Unicom Operations


Check accuracy of UNICOM time clocks including computers and AWIB time

General Broadcast "Ardmore UNICOM on Watch the time is xxxx hours"

Check met data recording computer is functioning correctly Check charge on hand-held mobiles Check charge on UNICOM Mobile Cellphone Check back-up Walkie-Talkie radios are running and on same channel

ready for use. MONDAY morning:

- CRASH alarm test @ 0900 local time (both alarms) - Formal time check via Industrial Research Ltd (0900 45 678) - Place UNICOM hand-held radios on overnight charge

3.6 Watch Changeover:

Before going off watch - save current database Self brief on logbook and sign ON watch Check Message book Brief and Hand Over watch and sign OFF

3.7 Closing Watch:

General broadcast "Ardmore UNICOM off Watch the time is xxxx

hours" update AWIB and turn OFF Met screen (ensure runway in use

information is deleted from AWIB) Switch OFF Standby 121.5 radio Prepare Flight Progress Strips for the next shift Check met data recording computer is functioning correctly Sign OFF watch in logbook Save database spreadsheet and turn computer OFF Turn OFF all lights Check door is properly closed behind you, including fire escape door,

outside door in managers office, particularly if persons have accessed air-conditioning unit etc during the day, and doors and windows in kitchen area.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.8 AWIB:

The Aerodrome and Weather Information Broadcast remains on at all times. Pertinent

information can be input for broadcast e.g.:

Runway in use status of relevant airspace – i.e.: Hunua General Aviation Area gliding in progress at Drury airport unserviceabilities equipment unserviceabilities airport activities e.g.: Warbirds open days Crosswind if exceeding 15 knots Significant weather, i.e. turbulence or wind shear reported AA reported 2000ft wind if exceeding 20 knots IMPORTANT NOTES: Check AWIB broadcast, “listen” to full cycle broadcast after each manual change of information. The AWIB broadcast must be turned off if erroneous data is suspected in the message, i.e. wind information or QNH is incorrect, and the UNICOM General Manager must be notified ASAP and appropriate NOTAM action taken.

3.9 G276:

Refer Memorandum of Understanding.

Key Points:

G276 is not available when runway 05 at Auckland is in use.

G276 is not available when Ardmore UNICOM is not on watch

Status of G276 is broadcast on AR AWIB when airspace is active

Pilots operating in G276 are to monitor CH Information 118.5 and are to call CH info 118.5 on entry and on exit

For activation, cloud base must be equal to or better than 6 oktas at or above 4000ft AMSL


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.10 Emergencies

The duty Unicom officer is responsible for the activation of the Ardmore Emergency Plan during Unicom hours of service. Operator actions are to be consistent with the Ardmore Airport Emergency Plan document and the Aerodrome Emergency Procedures (Section 11.0) of the Ardmore Airport Operations Manual and must include:

Confirm call sign, aircraft position, POB and pilot intentions and advise

'Ardmore Traffic' If required advise Ardmore Traffic that “runway/airport is closed, aircraft on final go round, aircraft at holding point hold, solo students remain in circuit and overfly the runway.”

Press Crash Alarm. The hand held radio must remain at the bottom of the Tower as this is the emergency Services rendezvous point.

Write down key information on the Emergency Message Form (Appendix A-4)

Classifications Crash Crash Crash means an aircraft has crashed Full Emergency Full Emergency Full Emergency means a crash is highly likely - i.e.: the pilot has declared a

'MAYDAY'

Notify Fire and Emergency NZ - Dial “FIRE” speed dial or, Dial 1 for an outside

line, wait for dial tone, then dial '486 7940' (Allied line direct to the Fire Service comms centre) or dial 1, at the dial tone dial '111'. Say 'This is Ardmore Airport' pass the information from the Emergency Message Form Write down the time VERIFY READBACK CORRECT

Recheck the information that has been passed on Despatch Airport Liaison person, call-sign “Tango Base”, to base of the tower

wearing HiVis jacket. Advise Tango base that you have closed the airport (if accident on airport) and to relay to Emergency Service Personnel using the phrase “It is safe to proceed to the accident site”

Delegate senior person to act as interim Incident Controller and wearing the “Airport Operations Controller” HiVis jacket to proceed to the accident scene this person should remain with Chief Fire Officer, or designated Incident


Issued: June 2018

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Unicom Operations


Controller, in a liaison capacity. In the case of a Full Emergency this person should locate and remain with the Chief Fire Officer or Incident Controller to act as liaison.

Notify aircraft operator Notify Ardmore Airport Limited Initiate NOTAM action if required (update AWIB if required) Liaise with Ardmore Airport Ltd (CEO or Airport Operations Supervisor) for an

operational area inspection and/or permission to re-open the airport. Log all details including times of events, arrival of each Emergency Service etc. Emergency Services are to rendezvous at the base of the Tower building Notify Unicom General Manager As soon as possible write a full report of events in chronological order.

AIRCRAFT MALFUNCTION IN FLIGHT Whenever a UNICOM/Tower Operator becomes aware that an aircraft is experiencing an in-flight malfunction and intends to land at Ardmore, the pilot shall be asked to state whether emergency services are required. No airfield services are available so a Full Emergency Phase shall be declared when any level of service is requested. If communication, due to radio failure or other difficulties such as language problems cannot be established with the pilot and the UNICOM/Tower Operator believes that the aircraft or its occupants are at risk, the UNICOM/Tower Operator should declare the full emergency phase.

Additional actions and considerations in an emergency: o Designate two persons responding to the tower (alerted by crash alarm) to act as

communication liaison. The priority is for one person to act as Liaison Officer by remaining at the base of the tower at the Assembly Area (AA), which is the official emergency rendezvous point. Wearing an orange vest and with a hand-held radio tuned to 118.1 (call sign “Tango Base”) and back-up Walkie-Talkie 2-way radio, they are to brief/direct emergency personnel/vehicles on arrival at the AA.

o Ensure the airport is closed to enable emergency services to proceed direct to the incident scene without delay. Ensure Tango Base person passes this vital information to emergency services on arrival using the phrase “It is safe to proceed”.

o Emergency personnel will not enter the active runway until advised by UNICOM, via the Liaison Officer, that “It is safe to proceed”.

o The second (preferably more senior/experienced person) should assume the role of interim Incident Controller and proceed to the scene:


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


Give them the “Airport Operations Controller” vest, the second hand held radio tuned to 118.1, their call sign is “Incident Controller”. And the Unicom Mobile Telephone - for discrete communication Ph 021 0226 2648 (programmed onto landline telephone speed dial)

Their role is to:

provide a communications link with UNICOM

control the incident scene by delegating other persons/volunteers at the scene to attend to crew and passengers and provide what first aid they can

secure the scene, keeping bystanders back, and asking for persons to assist in preventing aircraft components and debris from being moved from the scene

Hand over the role of Incident Controller to the senior Fire Officer or Police officer when they arrive

Provide ongoing liaison to the new Incident Controller/Officer in Charge (OIC) and continue to maintain a communications link with UNICOM until the emergency situation is over and normal operations resume

Co-ordinate with UNICOM the safe departure of emergency vehicles from operational areas

o Provide status updates to traffic regarding duration of any runway/airport closure.

o Ask “Ardmore Traffic” if any solo students in the circuit.

o Ask “Ardmore Traffic” if any aircraft are low on fuel reserve, if so you may need to prioritize and arrange for aircraft low on fuel to either land or divert.

o Taxiway Juliet is no longer designated as a runway; the use of taxiway Juliet for precautionary landings is not authorized.

o Runway 07/25 grass may be an option, caution Helicopter TLOF.

o Disabling of Runway 03/21 runway lights should be considered if a runway obstruction occurs at night or, is unable to be cleared prior to ECT. Liaise with the Airport Company.

o If a situation is serious enough that you activated the crash alarm then the Fire and Emergency NZ should be notified; even if the incident seems to be not too serious. Explain to the Fire Service what has happened and let them decide on an appropriate response.

o Remember: if in any doubt about a situation, you should activate the emergency plan


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


as outlined above. You can always stand down emergency services once the emergency is over, e.g. the aircraft has landed safely, or the Airport Company or Pilot-in-Command requests you to stand down Emergency Services. Note: if you request a stand down, the Fire Service will still most likely respond to verify the all clear. Therefore arrange for a liaison person to station themselves at the base of the tower to brief any emergency personnel who may arrive.

o Ardmore Flying School staff are designated, depending on availability of personnel, as first response to the tower when the Crash Alarm is activated to fill the role of Liaison Officer and Incident Controller. Ardmore Flying School staff have been briefed on emergency procedures.

o NZ Warbirds Response Intervention Vehicle may respond and is normally staffed by trained volunteer fire fighters and a paramedic; they will call you on frequency 118.1 MHz, Call sign “Warbirds Response”. Note: NZ Warbirds Frequency is 122.10 MHz. Note: Warbirds Response is a private NZ Warbirds initiative for NZ Warbirds aircraft and as such they are not included in the Airport Emergency plan response. They should defer to Fire and Emergency NZ authority when they arrive.

o It is the Pilot-in-Command’s responsibility to notify CAA, however you may do so at the pilot’s or Ardmore Airport Company’s request. Contact the Rescue Co-ordination Centre (RCC), the telephone number is on the phone list. RCC will notify appropriate CAA, and if necessary Transport Accident Investigation Commission (TAIC), personnel.

o In the event of Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) activation notify RCC as soon as possible. Refer Section 3.15 ELT signals.

o If an accident has occurred on or in the vicinity of a runway, authorization from CAA is required before the aircraft and or debris can be moved to allow the area to be reopened. Liaise with RCC for this authorization. The NZ Police will secure the scene and will not permit the removal of the aircraft or debris until specific authorization is provided directly by CAA. CAA may telephone UNICOM with this authorization, therefore to avoid unnecessary delay in reopening an operational area ask the person from CAA to hold the line and request that a senior police officer report to the UNICOM tower ASAP so that they can speak directly to CAA. CAA will in general agree to the removal of the aircraft once the Airport Authority has photographed the accident scene and provided that there are no injuries and/or the aircraft involved is not air transport. Reference: CAR 12.101.

o Prior to reopening a runway or operational area after an accident, even if minor, the area must be fully inspected by AAL staff or designated authorized person i.e. CFI or senior instructor. Liaise with AAL or UNICOM General Manager.

o In the event an aircraft makes a precautionary off airfield landing but the pilot declines an emergency response. Please telephone Fire and Emergency NZ and brief them in plain English regarding the situation.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


Remember: in the event of an emergency: –

Activate the Emergency Plan

Confirm/Advise/Warn traffic

Notify the Fire Service

Follow the checklist!!

3.11 Communications Test:

The emergency communication system should be tested a minimum of once every four

weeks.

All such checks are to be completed using the Emergency Form A-4 and filed with the

UNICOM General Manager who is to raise communications problems with the Airport

Company for the Emergency Services committee to address.

3.12 Emergency Plan Review:

The emergency plan should be reviewed after each actual emergency or full exercise in

order to correct any deficiencies found. A formal de-briefing should also be conducted

after each actual emergency and representatives from all participating agencies are

required to attend.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.13 Airport Works:

Other than grass mowing and routine maintenance by airport staff Unicom operators are to refer all maintenance contractors wishing to operate in operational areas to Ardmore Airport Ltd. Airport Staff will normally escort non-airport maintenance personnel into operational areas. In case of urgent maintenance work and with the specific permission at the time of Ardmore Airport Ltd, UNICOM operators shall brief all contractors carrying out work on operational areas and issue Work Permits. Briefings are to be conducted using the Airside Briefing Sheet (form A6 and A6a) and will as a minimum cover:

- General safety - Work permits - Hazards - Vehicles and speed limits - Foreign objects - Accidents and injuries - Emergency procedures - Personal protection

Unicom operators shall maintain a constant surveillance of any work in progress on the

operational area to ensure compliance with contractor’s briefing.

3.14 Airfield/Facility Unserviceability’s:

In the event there are any airfield/equipment unserviceabilities:

- Advise aircraft and insert AWIB message as necessary - Log unserviceability - Immediately notify Ardmore Airport Ltd 298-9544 - Take appropriate NOTAM action as required

3.15 Ground Vehicles

Drivers operating motor vehicles within aircraft operational areas must monitor VHF radio frequency 118.1MHz at all times. Mandatory radio calls are required when driving across active runways or TLOF areas. Vehicles must give way to all aircraft.

Motor vehicles must have their orange flashing beacon and/or hazard lights switched on within aircraft operational areas


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.16 Radio Check procedure:

Pilot requests for radio checks should be conducted in accordance with CAA RadioTelephony Manual AC91-9 & AC 172-1 Item 4.14 page 16. Readability Scale: 1. Unreadable 2. Readable now and then 3. Readable but with difficulty 4. Readable 5. Perfectly readable

UNICOM should advise pilots if their radios are operating below the normal standard. Airport users via the Ardmore Flight Operations Group have requested that UNICOM provide an indication of the quality and strength of poor transmissions. Strength: 1. Very Faint 2. Faint 3. Weak 4. Below normal strength 5. Normal strong signal For example: a good clear radio would be readability “5” A strong but somewhat garbled transmission would be “Strength 5, Readability 3”. A clear but weak transmission would be Strength 3, Readability 4 In addition a comment regarding quality is useful such as Strength 4, Readability 4 with Static, or background hum, etc. A request for a radio check from a maintenance engineer requires an accurate response including strength, readability, and quality of transmission. Note: South Pacific Avionics frequently use the call sign “XVS” when testing radios. Crossed Transmissions Crossed Transmissions are a frequent problem; UNICOM can assist in preventing a reoccurrence of the problem. Simply calling “two at once” generally results in both pilots transmitting at the same time again. The Ardmore CFI & AFOG groups have requested that UNICOM assist by relaying the transmission back to the traffic and asking the other


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


aircraft to repeat “say again” or in the case of a partial transmission heard by the UNICOM operator repeat the part that was heard and ask that aircraft to go ahead first. Examples: “Ardmore Traffic, that was two stations at once, copied TAS reporting downwind 21 seal, other station say again” Or, “Ardmore Traffic that was two stations at once, aircraft calling at Hunua say again first” Don’t just say TAS copied your transmission, other station go ahead. You may have heard TAS but other stations may not have heard it depending on their proximity to the aircraft.

3.17 ELT Signals:

ELTs operate on 121.5 MHz, 243 MHz, and/or 406 MHz CAA rule Part 91 has been amended to require 406 MHz ELTs to be fitted to NZ aircraft by 1st July 2008. These beacons when activated will still transmit a continuous 0.1- watt signal on 121.5 MHz to alert aircraft in the vicinity and to enable homing with VHF direction finding equipment. Ardmore UNICOM monitors frequency 121.5MHz during normal hours of operation. The functioning of the 121.5 MHz radio is checked during the opening watch procedure. UNICOM operators hearing an ELT transmission, or if a transmission is reported by a pilot are to take the following steps:

Advise Ardmore traffic and ask pilots in the area to confirm if they are receiving the ELT signal. Note the locations where pilots report receiving/not receiving the signal. Try to form a picture of the general location of the signal.

Notify the Ardmore Airport Operations Supervisor without delay If the signal is still heard (after a minute or two) notify Rescue Co-ordination

Centre (RCC) phone 0508 472 269 or 04 914 8380 If time permits, ring the various engineering bases on the airfield to determine if

they are working on an ELT Log the details in the log book

Testing of ELTs may only be done within the first five minutes after each hour and be limited to 3 audio sweeps. Unfortunately, in practise, testing appears to be done outside the official time period. Due to the intermittent brief nature of test signals, locating its source is very difficult. Log the details and if signals persist, even if they are intermittent, follow the procedure outlined above.


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


3.18 Runway Change procedure:

If a pilot has requested a runway change and traffic agree, or you have noticed a wind trend indicating a runway change is necessary and traffic agree (i.e. a consistent tail wind component 5-6 knots or more), the following procedure should be used:

1. Advise Ardmore Traffic that a runway change will occur in approximately 10 minutes. (Note:

you may modify this time as appropriate depending on traffic density)

It is important that “traffic” is given a warning of an impending runway change.

2. All ab initio solo students are to land full stop and clear the runway prior to the runway change. The following radio transmission should be made “Ardmore Traffic, this is Ardmore UNICOM, are there any solo students in the circuit?”. (If you are unsure or suspect an aircraft is piloted by a solo student, call the specific aircraft and ask “are you a solo student?”)

3. Advise any solo students to remain in the existing runway circuit direction, land full-stop, and taxi to the holding point and hold for the runway change. (refer to note “iv” on page 17 should the student go-round on the attempt to land)

4. If a pilot or instructor attempts to change the runway immediately, advise them that the

current runway direction will remain in use until all solo students have landed.

5. If you receive objections to your broadcast of an impending runway change, you may treat the pilot’s objections on their merits.

6. Advise traffic that the runway direction will change once the solo student/s has landed.

7. Aircraft finals and base should be allowed to land prior to the change, you can clarify by

calling specific aircraft and asking the pilot for their intentions. Many will opt to vacate the circuit to hold clear for the runway change. Aircraft finals should land full-stop in preference to a touch and go, you can advise the pilot “I would appreciate it if you make this a full-stop”

8. Joining aircraft should be advised “XYZ a runway change is in progress, suggest you remain

clear of the circuit or hold overhead the field”. Aircraft taxiing out should be advised to taxi for the new runway holding point.

9. When ready to change the circuit direction make the following call (assuming runway 03 is

the runway currently in use), “Ardmore Traffic, this is Ardmore UNICOM, the wind is favouring runway 21, circuit traffic should now recircuit for runway 21.”

10. Aircraft downwind and crosswind are to make a 180 degree turn, turning away from the

circuit, to then recircuit for the new runway. You can encourage a pilot to change by saying


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


“I would appreciate it if you would make a 180 degree turn”. If you need to prompt an immediate turn, for example other aircraft have started turning, you can recommend, “suggest you make a 180 degree turn now, runway 21 is now in use”

11. Aircraft just airborne should continue straight ahead vacate and then rejoin the circuit.

You need to carefully watch this aircraft to ensure they do not conflict with other traffic. Note: as per the Airport Operations manual, dumbbells are not permitted under any circumstances.

12. As soon as traffic starts re-circuiting it is important, to avoid any confusion, that you make

the following radio call, “Ardmore Traffic, this is Ardmore UNICOM, Runway 21 is now in use”.

13. Update the AWIB as soon as possible.

Note i: you can prepare the AWIB in advance, type in the new text in the preamble, leave the cursor flashing in the preamble area. The AWIB will continue to broadcast the old information until you click onto a new field with the mouse. Then hit the update button when changing the runway. Note ii:- if a squall line is approaching which may result in a strong tail wind component which would be beyond the ability of an ab initio solo student to land. Pre-empt this situation by warning the solo student of the approaching weather and get them to land full stop in preference to allowing them to continue in the circuit and then getting stuck with having to change runway direction airborne. Note iii:- in light and variable conditions it is preferable to settle on one runway direction rather than making frequent changes. The runway favoured by the 2000 foot wind on Auckland’s ATIS is generally the preferred runway direction. Note iv:- in the event that a student has difficulty landing and goes around, or if the tailwind is simply too strong, advise the student to remain in the circuit and report in the late downwind position, once they’re in the late downwind position advise the student, “suggest you make a 180 degree left turn now, to join downwind runway 21 (or right turn to join downwind runway 03), then advise traffic of the new circuit direction in use. This procedure ensures that the student is in a straight and level attitude at 1000ft agl before commencing a turn, and provides for a full downwind leg to be flown in the new direction prior to the base leg turn. Note v:- Note: If traffic density is high and the tail wind component is not excessive, you can call the pilot wanting to initiate the change, suggesting a delay due numbers in the circuit, and that you’ll keep and eye on the wind and advise. Note vi – if a tail dragger type aircraft is about to land, check the wind direction and strength and warn the pilot if any tail wind component exists and/or if the crosswind component is/or exceeds 12 knots. If a


Issued: June 2018

Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


high performance tail dragger is about to land, i.e. Spitfire, P40 Kittyhawk, P51 Mustang, Thunder Mustang etc. You should make a general broadcast to “Ardmore Traffic” advising the current wind conditions including the average wind direction and speed, maximum wind gust, average crosswind and maximum crosswind as displayed on MetDisplay Unit (unless the wind is straight down the runway i.e. all headwind). It is not necessary to provide a wind advisory to traffic if the high performance tail dragger remains in the circuit for subsequent touch and go landings unless the wind changes for the worse since the last advisory report given.

4.0 Equipment:

The Unicom Station is equipped with the following:

Operational: Main transceiver 118.1 MHz Standby transceiver (multiple Freq selection available) AWIB 121.0 MHz AFRU 118.1 MHz Met Station Display Telephone: 09 296 4512 Facsimile Machine: 09 296 4514 Clock (set to UTC) Short & Mason barometer Standby (Munro) Anemometer Mobile Cellphone (for use in emergencies)

Administration: Logbook

Stationery – pens, fax paper, note paper, etc Forms:

- AWIB - Operational Occurrence report forms (electronic form) - Emergency Procedure Checklist - Emergency forms - Communications test forms - Aerodrome inspection reports - Bird strike reports - Flight Progress Strips - Clipboards - Airport maps - Crash maps 1 & 2 - Auckland VNC - NZAR GPS approach charts


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Approved: CEO


Unicom Operations


Documents: NZAIP Vol 1 & 4 and Auckland VNC Ardmore Airport Operations Manual Ardmore Unicom Operations Manual Ardmore Unicom Training Manual Ardmore Airport Emergency Plan document

NZ G276 Memorandum of Understanding CAA Rules: Part 1 Part 12 Part 73 subpart B Part 91 Part 93 subpart G Part 139 subpart F Part 174 CAA Advisory Circulars: AC12-1 AC139-12 AC174-1


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Unicom Operations


5.0 Training:

5.1 Qualifications:

The prerequisite to obtaining a Unicom Operator’s Certificate of Competency will be that the individuals hold, or have held in the last ten years, either:

- a Flight Service Officer’s licence; or, - an Air Traffic Controller’s licence; or, - a Commercial Pilot’s licence, preferably with a Flight Instructor

rating; and, have successfully completed the prescribed practical assessment and period of ‘on-the-job’ training and meet the CAA requirements as an ‘Authorised Person’ under Section 51 of the Civil Aviation Act 1990.

5.2 Theory Curriculum

- Understanding of Unicom service and objectives - Employment Induction - Logbook keeping - Flight Progress Strip system - AWIB operation and data entry - ARFU operation - Transceiver operation - RT procedures and phraseologies - MBZ airspace and procedures - NOTAM handling - Aerodrome Inspections - Airport layout and facilities - Operational Occurrence reporting - Bird strike action/reporting - Complaints procedure - Emergency Plan implementation - Communication testing - Runway change procedure - Traffic priorities - Low Flying Zone and Whitford Forest monitoring - Basic Weather reports as per CAR 174.6 - Met data recording and daily weather observation reports - Flight Plan Termination - Hunua General Aviation area operation


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Unicom Operations


- Ardmore Airport Operations Manual - Ardmore UNICOM Operations Manual - Computer usage for data entry - Movement database management - NZAIP Vol 4 NZAR pages - CAR Part 91 & 93G(Ardmore) - CAR Parts 12 & 73 - CAR Part 139 subpart F and AC139-12

5.3 Practical Curriculum:

- Minimum of 10 days training {ref. CAA AC139-12 appendix B (a) & (b)} - Minimum one shift practical assessment.

5.4 Annual Proficiency Assessment

All Unicom operators are required to be proficiency assessed annually by the Unicom

General Manager. Refer section 6.4.

6.0 Unicom General Manager:

6.1 Duties:

To maintain a high standard of Unicom Service and to ensure that:

- Rosters are published a minimum of two weeks in advance. - Relief staff are available to cover staff unavailability. - Organise training of new staff as required. - Maintain staff proficiency levels by ‘on-the-job’ supervision. - Equipment faults are actioned promptly - Summary of duty times presented at the end of each month to enable

prompt wage payments. - A Monthly Report is to be presented to Massey Aviation and Ardmore

Airport Ltd by the end of the first week of the following month.


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Unicom Operations


6.2 Document Control

- Ensure all publications are kept updated - Where applicable, record keeping will be in accordance with CAR Parts

172.115 and 172.117 - In line with Ardmore Airport Authority Ltd Document Control Procedure

(AAL-MS-PROCEDURE—021-A)

6.3 Quality Assurance

To ensure there is a fully auditable document and procedure trail the General Manager is

to ensure all relevant forms are attached to and submitted with the monthly report. As a general check all documents are to be completed correctly in a legible manner with particular attention to dates, times and signatures where required.

Regular management reviews will be conducted by the Airport Authority or a designated representative to determine the on-going efficacy of the Unicom Service in terms of safety and cost effectiveness.

6.4 Annual Proficiency Assessments

The Unicom General Manager is to formally asses the proficiency of all Unicom

operators annually. A record of the assessment is to be appended to each operator's personal file.

The Annual Proficiency Assessment of the Unicom General Manager will be conducted

by such person(s) as deemed appropriate by mutual agreement between the Airport Authority and AUSL.