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TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 12: RULES OF THE AIR
12.1
12.1.1
12.1.1.1
12.1.2
12.1.2.1
12.1.2.2
12.1.2.3
12.1.2.4
12.1.2.5
12.1.2.5.1
12.1.2.5.2
12.1.2.5.3
12.1.2.5.4
12.1.2.5.4.1
VISUAL FLIGHT (VFR) AND INSTRUMENT FLIGHT (IFR) RULES
Visual Flight Rules (VFR)
Special VFR within CTR
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)
Aircraft Equipment
Minimum Levels
Change from IFR Flight to VFR Flight
Rules Applicable for IFR Flights within Controlled Airspace
Rules Applicable to IFR Flights outside Controlled Airspace
Cruising Levels
Communications
Positions Reports
Signals
Procedures for pilots observing an accident or receiving a distress
Transmission
4
4
6
7
7
7
7
7
8
8
8
8
9
12.2
TERRITORIAL APPLICATION
10
12.3
12.3.1
12.3.2
COMMUNICATIONS PROCEDURES
Communication Failure
Unlawful Interference
11
11
12
12.4
INTERCEPTION (RACD 18 PART 2, 18.3.1.8)
13
12.5
THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A RADIO LISTENING
WATCH IS TO BE MAINTAINED
17
12.6
SIGNALS (RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.4)
18
12.7
TIME SYSTEM IN OPERATIONS (RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.5)
18
12.8
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL CLEARANCES, ADHERENCE
TO FLIGHT PLAN AND POSITION REPORTS
(RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.6)
Air Traffic Control Service
Air Traffic Control Clearances
Potential Re-Clearance in Flight
Adherence to Flight Plan
Changes to a Fight Plan
Inadvertent Changes
Intended Changes
Position Reports
Closing a Flight Plan
Termination of Control
18
18
18
19
19
20
20
20
21
22
22
12.8.1
12.8.1.1
12.8.1.2
12.8.2
12.8.3
12.8.3.1
12.8.3.2
12.8.4
12.8.5
12.8.6
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12.9
12.10
12.10.1
12.10.2
12.11
12.12
12.12.1
12.12.2
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VISUAL SIGNALS USED TO WARN AN UNAUTHORIZED
AIRPLANE FLYING IN, OR ABOUT TO ENTER A RESTRICTED,
PROHIBITED OR DANGER AREA. (RACD 14, APPENDIX 2)
23
PROCEDURES FOR PILOTS OBSERVING AN ACCIDENT OR
RECEIVING A DISTRESS TRANSMISSION (RACD 14.5.7)
Pilots-in-command Observing an Accident
Pilot-in-command Receiving a Distress Transmission
23
23
23
GROUND VISUAL SIGNAL CODES FOR USE BY SURVIVORS
(RACD 14.5.8 and APPENDIX 2)
24
DISTRESS AND URGENCY SIGNALS (RACD 14.5.6)
Distress Signal
Urgency Signals
24
24
24
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CHAPTER 12: RULES OF THE AIR
Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) adheres to the rules of the air as described by RACD
18 Part 2 as well as International requirements, when performing any of its operations.
12.1 VISUAL FLIGHT (VFR) AND INSTRUMENT FLIGHT (IFR) RULES
12.1.1 Visual Flight Rules (VFR)
Except when operating as a special VFR flight, Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) VFR
flights shall be conducted so that the aircraft is flown in conditions of visibility and distance
from clouds equal to or greater than those specified in table below
Except when a clearance is obtained from an air traffic control unit, VFR flights shall not take
off or land at an aerodrome within a control zone, or enter the aerodrome traffic zone or
traffic pattern:
i. When the ceiling is less than 450 m (1,500 ft); Or
ii. When the ground visibility is less than 5 Km.
VFR flights between sunset and sunrise, or such other period between sunset and sunrise
as may be prescribed by the appropriate RVA authority, shall be operated in accordance
with the conditions prescribed by such authority.
Unless authorized by the appropriate ATS authority, VFR flights shall not be operated
Above 19500 ft.
Airspace Class
Distance from
cloud
ABCD
CDE
FG
Above 900 m
At and below
(3000 ft) AMSL or 900 m
above 300 m
(3000 ft) or 300 m
(1000 ft) above
(1000 ft) above
terrain whichever terrain, whichever
is the higher.
is the higher.
Clear of Cloud
Clear of cloud and
in sight of the
surface
1500 m horizontally 300 m (1000 ft) vertically
Flight Visibility
8 Km at and above 3050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL 5 Km below
3050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL
5 Km (*)
The VMC minima in Class A airspace are included for guidance to pilots and do not imply
acceptance of VFR flights in Class A airspace.
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When the height of the Transition Altitude is lower than 3,050 m (10,000 ft) AMSL, FL 100
should be used in lieu of 10,000 ft.
(*) When so prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority:
A. lower flight visibility to 1,500 m may be permitted for flights operating:
a) at speeds that, in the prevailing visibility, will give adequate opportunity to observe
other traffic or any obstacles in time to avoid collision; or
b) In circumstances in which the probability of encounters with other traffic would
normally be low, e.g. in areas of low volume traffic and for aerial work at low
levels.
B. Except when necessary for take-off or landing, or except by permission from the appropriate
authority, a VFR flight shall not be flown:
1) Over the congested area of cities, towns or settlements or over an open-air
assembly of persons at a height less than 300 m (1,000 ft) above the highest
obstacle within a radius of 600 m from the aircraft;
2) Elsewhere than as specified at point A. above, at a height less than 150 m (500 ft)
above the ground of water.
C. Except where otherwise indicated in air traffic control clearances or specified by the
appropriate ATS authority, VFR flights in level cruising flight when operated above 900 m
(300 ft) from the ground of water, or a higher datum as specified by the appropriate ATS
Authority, shall be conducted at a flight level appropriate to the track as specified in the
table of cruising levels.
D.
A VFR flight operation within or into areas or along routes, designated by the
appropriate ATS authority (e.g. “controlled VFR flights”) shall maintain continuous
listening watch on the appropriate radio frequency of, and report its position as
necessary to the air traffic services unit providing flight information service.
E. An aircraft operated in accordance with the visual flight rules which wishes to change
to compliance with the instrument flight rules shall:
1)
If a flight plan was submitted, communicate the necessary changes to be
effected to its current flight plan, or
2)
When so required, submit a flight plan to the appropriate air traffic
services unit and obtain a clearance prior to proceeding IFR when in
controlled airspace.
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12.1.1.1 Special VFR within CTR
In meteorological conditions below VMC when traffic conditions permit, special VFR flights
may be authorized:
 During day hours;
 During night hours only for the users authorized to operate in VFR during night time;
 Subject to the approval of the Unit providing the Approach Control Service and in
accordance with the provision shown below.
 On the pilot’s request, authorization for Special VFR may given individually to aircraft;
 To enter a control zone for the purpose of landing;
 To take-off for the purpose of departing from the control zone or operating within the
control zone.
 The visibility and ceiling requirement for Special VFR are:
 At least 1500 m. ground visibility for fixed wing aircraft operation if taking off or
landing. On aerodromes where more than one visibility observation is available,
the “ground visibility” to be considered for Special VFR operations shall be the lowest
visibility observed;
 At least 1500 m. flight visibility for fixed wing operating within the control zone.
 Ceiling not below a height enabling the pilot to remain under the clouds and in sight
of surface in accordance with the minimum height for VFR flights or in accordance
with any other minimum heights when so defined locally by the appropriate
authorities
 Between Special VFR flights and between Special VFR and IFR flights the standard
separation will be applied unless:
 Particular separation minima based on the use of corridors, routes, visual reporting and
holding points (VRP) are applicable both between Special VFR flights and between
Special VFR and IFR flights, provided that these separations are provided by the
appropriate ATS Authority in co-ordination with the user;
 It is possible to reduce separation minima in the vicinity of the aerodromes in
accordance with DOC 4444, part IV, para 1.
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12.1.2 Instrument Flight Rules (IFR)
12.1.2.1 Aircraft Equipment
Aircraft shall be equipped with suitable instruments and with navigation equipment appropriate
to the route to be flown.
12.1.2.2 Minimum Levels
Except when necessary for take-off or landing or except when specifically authorized by the
appropriate authority, an IFR flight shall be flown at a level which is not below the minimum
flight altitude established by the State whose territory is over-flown, or, where no such
minimum flight altitude has been established:
 Over high terrain or in mountainous areas, at a level which is at least 600 m (2,000 ft)
above the highest obstacle located within 8 Km of the estimated position of the aircraft;
 Elsewhere than as specified at point A. above, at a level which is at least 300 m
(1,000 ft) above the highest obstacle located within 8 Km of the estimated position of
the aircraft.
Note. The estimated position of the aircraft will take account of the navigational
accuracy which can be achieved on the relevant route segment, having regard to
the navigational facilities available on the ground and in the aircraft.
12.1.2.3 Change from IFR Flight to VFR Flight
An aircraft electing to change the conduct of its flight from compliance with the instrument
flight rules to compliance with the visual flight rules shall, if a flight plan was submitted, notify
the appropriate air traffic services unit specifically that the IFR flight is cancelled and
communicate there to changes to be made to its current flight plan.
12.1.2.4 Rules Applicable for IFR Flights within Controlled Airspace
IFR flights shall comply with the Air Traffic Control Service when operated in controlled
airspace.
An IFR flight operating in cruising flight in controlled airspace shall be flown at a cruising level,
or, if authorized to employ cruise climb techniques, between two levels or above a level,
selected from:
 The table of cruising levels);
 A modified table of cruising levels, when so prescribed, for flight above FL 290,
except that the
correlation of levels to track prescribed therein shall not apply
whenever otherwise indicated in air traffic control clearances or specified by the
appropriate ATS authority in Aeronautical Publications.
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12.1.2.5 Rules Applicable to IFR Flights outside Controlled Airspace
12.1.2.5.1 Cruising Levels
An IFR Flight operating in level cruising flight outside of controlled airspace shall be flown at
a cruising level appropriate to its track as specified in:
 The table of cruising levels, except when otherwise specified by the appropriate ATS
authority for flight at or below 900 m (3,000 ft) above mean sea level; Or
 A modified cruising level when so prescribed for flight above FL 290.
Note: This case does not include the use of cruise climb techniques by aircraft in
supersonic flight.
12.1.2.5.2 Communications
An IFR flight operating outside controlled airspace but within or into areas, or along rules,
designated by the appropriate ATS authority, shall maintain a listening watch on the
appropriate radio frequency and establish two-way communication, as necessary, with the Air
Traffic Services Unit providing Flight Information Service.
12.1.2.5.3 Positions Reports
An IFR flight operating outside controlled airspace is required by the appropriate ATS authority
to:
 Submit a flight plan;
 Maintain a listening watch on the appropriate radio frequency and establish
two-way communication, as necessary, with the air traffic services unit providing flight
information service shall report position as specified for controlled flights.
Note: Aircraft electing to use the air traffic advisory service which operating IFR within
specified advisory airspace are expected to comply with the cases of point “Air
Traffic Control Service” except that the flight plan and changes there to are not
subjected to clearances and that two-way communication will be maintained
with the unit providing the air traffic advisory service.
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12.1.2.5.4 Signals
Distress and Emergency signals are described in the Operations Manual Part C, Jeppesen
airway manual.
12.1.2.5.4.1 Procedures for pilots observing an accident or receiving a distress transmission
Pilots-in-command observing an accident
When a pilot-in-command observes that either another Airplane or a surface craft is in distress,
he/she shall, unless unable to, or in the circumstances of the case considers it unreasonable or
unnecessary:
 Keep in sight the craft in distress until such time as his/her presence is no longer
necessary;
 If position is not known with certainty, take such action that will facilitate the
determination of it;
 Report to the rescue co-ordination centre or air traffic services unit as much of the
following information as possible:
 Type of craft in distress, its identification and condition;
 Its position, expressed in geographical co-ordinates or in distance and true
bearing from a distinctive landmark or from a radio navigation aid;
 Time of observation expressed in hours and minutes UTC;
 Number of persons observed;
 Whether persons have been seen to abandon the craft in distress;
 Number of persons observed to be afloat;
 Apparent physical condition of survivors;
 Act as instructed by the rescue co-ordination centre or the air traffic services unit.
Pilot-in-command receiving a distress transmission
Whenever a distress signal and/or message or equivalent transmission is intercepted
on radiotelegraphy or radiotelephony by a pilot-in-command of an Airplane, he/she shall:
 Record the position of the Airplane in distress if given;
 If possible take a bearing on the transmission;
 Inform the appropriate rescue co-ordination centre or air traffic services unit of the
distress transmission, giving all available information;
 At his/her discretion, while awaiting instructions, proceed to the position given in the
transmission.
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12.2 TERRITORIAL APPLICATION
The Rules of the Air shall apply to aircraft bearing the nationality and registration marks of a
contracting State, wherever they may be, to the extent that they do not conflict with the rules
published by the state having jurisdiction over the territory over-flown.
Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) complies with regulatory requirement on over flight
authorization.
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12.3 COMMUNICATIONS PROCEDURES
12.3.1 Communication Failure
When a radio failure occurs, the Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation Flight Crew shall:
 Proceed according to the current flight plan to the appropriate designated
navigation and serving the destination aerodrome, and, when required to ensure
compliance with point b. below, hold over this aid until commencement of descent;
 Commence descent from the navigation aid specified at point a. above at, or as close
as possible to, the expected approach time last received and acknowledged or, if
no expected approach time has been received and acknowledged, at, or as close as
possible to, the estimated time of arrival resulting from the current flight plan;
 Complete a normal instrument approach procedure as specified for the designated
navigation aid;
 And, if possible, within thirty minutes after the estimated time of arrival specified at
point b. above or the last acknowledged expected approach time, whichever is later.
 If in visual meteorological conditions:
 Continue to fly in visual meteorological conditions;
 Land at the nearest suitable aerodrome: and
 Report its arrival by the most expeditious means to the appropriate air traffic
control unit.
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12.3.2 Unlawful Interference
If a Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) aircraft is being subjected to unlawful interference,
the Flight Crew shall endeavor to notify the appropriate ATS unit of this fact, any significant
circumstances associated there-with and any deviation from the current flight plan
necessitated by the circumstances, in order to enable the ATS unit to give priority to the
aircraft and to minimize conflict with other aircraft.
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12.4 INTERCEPTION (RACD 18 PART 2, 18.3.1.8)
The Pilot-In-Command of Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) aircraft, when intercepted,
shall interpret and respond to visual signals specified in the table below.
SIGNALs for USE in the EVENT of INTERCEPTION
SIGNALs INITIATED by INTERCEPTING Aircraft and RESPONSEs by INTERCEPTED Aircraft
Series INTERCEPTING Aircraft Signals
1
DAY OR NIGHT- Rocking
Aircraft and flashing
navigational lights at irregular
intervals (and landing lights in
the case of a helicopter) from
position slightly above and
ahead of, and normally to the
left of, the intercepted aircraft or
to the right if the intercepted
aircraft (or to the right if the
intercepted aircraft is a
helicopter) and, after
acknowledgement, a slow level
turn normally to the left (or to
the right in case of an
helicopter) on the desired
heading.
Meaning
You Have
been
intercepted.
Follow me.
INTERCEPTED Aircraft Responds Meaning
DAY OR NIGHT- Rocking
Understood.
aircraft, flashing navigational
Will comply
lights at irregular interval and
following.
Note: Additional action
required to be taken by
intercepted aircraft.
Note 1: Meteorological
conditions or terrain may
require the intercepting
aircraft to reverse the
positions and direction of
turn given above in Series
2
Note 2: In the intercepted
aircraft is not able to keep
pace with the intercepting
aircraft, the latter is expected
to fly a series of race-track
patterns and to rock the
aircraft each time it passes
the intercepted aircraft.
Day or Night- At abrupt breakYou May
away maneuver from the
proceed.
intercepted aircraft consisting of
a climbing turn of 90 degrees or
more without crossing the line of
flight of the intercepted aircraft
DAY OR NIGHT- Rocking the Understood.
Will comply
aircraft
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Day or Night - Lowering landing Land at this
gear (if fitted) showing steady
Aerodrome
landing lights and over-flying
runway in use, or if the
intercepted aircraft is a helicopter,
over-lying the helicopter landing
area. In the case of helicopters,
the intercepting helicopter makes
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DAY OR NIGHT- Lowering
landing gear, (if fitted),
showing steady landing lights
and following the intercepting
aircraft and, if over-flying the
runway in use or helicopter
landing area, landing is
considered safe, proceeding to
land
Understood.
Will comply.
a landing approach coming to
hover near to the landing area.
Actions by Intercepted Aircraft
An aircraft which is intercepted by another aircraft shall immediately:
A. Follow the instructions given by the intercepting aircraft, interpreting and responding to
visual signals of the table below;
B. Notifies, if possible, the appropriate air traffic services unit;
C. Attempt to establish radio communication with the intercepting aircraft or with the
appropriate intercept control unit, by making a general call on the emergency frequency
121.5 MHz giving the identity of the intercepted aircraft and the nature of the flight; and if no
contact has been established and if practicable, repeating this call on the emergency
frequency 243 MHz;
If equipped with SSR transponder select Mode A, Code 7700, unless otherwise unstructured
by the appropriate air traffic
services unit.
If any instructions received by radio from any sources conflict with those given by the
intercepting aircraft by visual signals, the intercepted aircraft shall request immediate
clarification while continuing to comply with the visual instructions given by the intercepting
aircraft
If any instruction received by radio from any sources conflict with those given by the
intercepting aircraft by radio, the intercepted aircraft shall request immediate clarification
while continuing to comply with the radio instructions given by the intercepting aircraft.
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SIGNALs initiated by INTERCEPTING Aircraft and RESPONSEs by INTERCEPTED Aircraft
Series
4
INTERCEPTED
Meaning
Aircraft
Respond
s If it is
Day or NightDAY or Night Raising landing
disagreed that the
gear (if fitted) and flashing
intercepted aircraft
follow the intercepting
landing light while passing over
aircraft an alternate
runway in use or helicopter
aerodrome, the
landing area at a height
Aerodrome intercepting aircraft
raises its landing gear (if
Understood,
exceeding 300m (1000 ft) but not you have fitted) and uses the
follow me
exceeding 600m (2000 ft) (in the designated Series 1 signals
prescribed for
case of a helicopter, at a height
is
intercepting aircraft.
exceeding 50m (179 ft) but not
inadequate It is decided to release
INTERCEPTING Aircraft
Signals
exceeding 100m (330ft)) above
Meaning
.
the intercepted aircraft,
the aerodrome level, and
the intercepting aircraft
continuing to circle runway in use
uses the Series 2
or helicopter landing area. If
signals prescribed for
unable to flash landing lights,
intercepting aircraft.
flash any other lights available
5
6
DAY OR NIGHT- Regular
switching on and of all available
lights but in such a manner as to
be distinct from flashing lights
DAY OR NIGHT- Irregular
flashing of all available lights.
Cannot
Comply
DAY or NIGHT- Use
In distress Series 2 signals
prescribed for
intercepting aircraft
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Series 2 signals
prescribed for
intercepting aircraft.
Understood
Understood
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Radio-communication during Interception
If radio contact is established during interception but communication in a common language is
not possible, attempts shall be made to convey instructions, acknowledgement of instructions
and essential information by using the phrases and pronunciations as published in the Route
Manual (RM), Emergency Section, Interception Phraseologies, and transmitting each phrase
twice:
INTERCEPTION PHRASEOLOGIEs
Phrases for use by INTERCEPTING Aircraft
Phrase
Pronunciation
Meaning
What’s your
CALL SIGN
KOL SA-IN
call
sign?
FOLLOW
FOL-LO
Follow me
Phrases for use by INTERCEPTED Aircraft
Phrase
Pronunciation (1)
Meaning
CALL SIGN
My Call Sign (call
KOL SA-IN
(call sign) (2)
sing)
WILCO
Understood will
VILL-KO
comply
DESCEND
YOU LAND
PROCEED
DE-SEND
YOULAAND
PRO-SEED
Descend
CAN NOT
KANN NOTT
for
landing
Land at
this
aerodrome
REPEAT
REE-PEET
Repeat your
instruction
AM LOST
MAYDAY
AM LOSST
MAYDAY
Position unknown
I am in distress
HIJACK (3)
HIJACK
I have been
hijacked
I request to land at
(place name)
You May
proceed
LAND
(place
name)
DESCEND
LAAND (place
name)
DE-SEND
Unable to comply
I require descent
Note: In the pronunciation column syllables to be emphasized are bold/underlined.
The call sign required to be given is that used in radiotelephony communications
with air traffic services units and corresponding to the aircraft identification in
the flight plan. Circumstances may not always permit, or make desirable, the use
of the phrase «Hijack».
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12.5 THE CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH A RADIO LISTENING WATCH IS TO BE
MAINTAINED
A continuous radio listening watch must be maintained throughout all Compagnie Africaine
d'Aviation (CAA) flights, even when operating outside controlled airspace, unless:
A. Permission has been given by the appropriate ATS station to discontinue radio watch; Or
B. SELCAL is in use; Or
C. Use of defective radio equipment might endanger the safety of the flight.
When a Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) aircraft operating under the instrument flight
rules is flown in or encounters visual meteorological conditions it shall not cancel its IFR flight
unless it is anticipated, are intended, that the flight will be continued for a reasonable period of
time in uninterrupted visual meteorological conditions.
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12.6 SIGNALS (RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.4)
Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) procedures for Distress and Urgency signals are
described in the Operations Manual Part C chapter 7 and AFI Jeppesen Airway Manual.
12.7 TIME SYSTEM IN OPERATIONS (RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.5)
Co-ordinate Universal Time (UTC) shall be used in all Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA)
operations and shall be expressed in hours and minutes of the 24-hours day beginning at
midnight.
A time check shall be obtained prior to operating a controlled flight and at such other times
during the flight as may be necessary.
Note: Such time check is normally obtained from an air traffic services unit unless other
arrangements have been made by the operator or by the appropriate ATS
authority.
12.8
AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL CLEARANCES, ADHERENCE TO FLIGHT PLAN AND
POSITION REPORTS (RACD 18 Part 2, 18.3.1.6)
12.8.1 Air Traffic Control Service
Air Traffic Service must be utilized for all Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) flights
whenever available.
The local AIP specifies the details applicable for the appropriate country; reason why the
relevant requirements are only reproduced in parts.
12.8.1.1 Air Traffic Control Clearances
An air traffic control clearance shall be obtained prior to operating a controlled flight, or a
portion of a flight as a controlled flight. Such clearance shall be requested through the
submission of a flight plan to an air traffic control unit.
Note. A flight plan may cover only part of a flight, as necessary, to describe that
portion of the flight or those maneuvers which are subject to air traffic control.
A clearance may cover part of a current flight plan, as indicated in a clearance limit or by
reference to specific maneuvers such as taxiing, landing or taking off.
If an air traffic control clearance is not satisfactory to a commander of Compagnie
Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) aircraft, he may request and, if practicable, will be issued an
amended clearance.
Whenever an aircraft has requested a clearance involving priority, a report explaining the
necessity for such priority shall be submitted, if requested by the appropriate air traffic control
unit.
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12.8.1.2 Potential Re-Clearance in Flight
If prior to departure it is anticipated that depending on fuel endurance and subject to reclearance in flight, a decision may be taken to proceed to a revised destination aerodrome,
the appropriate air traffic control units shall be so notified by the insertion in the flight plan of
information concerning the revised route (where known) and the revised destination.
Note. The intent of this provision is to facilitate a re-clearance to a revised
destination, normally beyond the field destination aerodrome.
Caution: Some States do not allow certain aerodromes to be nominated as «provisional»
destinations.
An aircraft operated on a controlled aerodrome shall not taxi on the maneuvering area
without clearance from the aerodrome control tower and shall comply with any
instructions given by that unit.
12.8.2 Adherence to Flight Plan
Except as provided in “Inadvertent Changes” and in “Weather Deterioration Below VMC”
paragraphs, an aircraft shall adhere to the current flight plan or the applicable portion of a
current flight plan submitted for a controlled flight unless a request for a change has been
made and clearance obtained from the appropriate air traffic control unit, or unless an
emergency situation arises which necessitates immediate action by the aircraft, in which event
as soon as circumstances permit, after such emergency authority is exercised, the appropriate
air traffic services unit shall be notified of the action taken and that this action has been taken
under emergency authority.
Unless otherwise authorized or directed by the appropriate air traffic control unit, controlled
flights shall, in so far as practicable:
A. When on an established ATS route, operate along the defined centerline of that route; Or
B. When on any other route, operate directly between the navigation facilities and/or points
defining that route. Subject to the overriding requirement at point A. above, an aircraft
operating along an ATS route segment defined by reference to very high frequency Omnidirectional radio ranges shall change over for its primary navigation guidance from the facility
behind the aircraft to that ahead of it as, or as close as operationally feasible to, the changeover point, where established.
Deviation from the requirements at point A. and point B. above shall be notified to the
appropriate air traffic services unit.
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12.8.3 Changes to a Flight Plan
All changes to a flight plan submitted for an IFR flight, or a VFR flight operated as a
controlled flight, shall be reported as soon as practicable to the appropriate air traffic services
unit.
For other VFR flights, significant changes to a flight plan shall be reported as soon as
practicable to the appropriate air traffic services unit.
Information submitted to departure regarding fuel endurance or total number of persons
carried on board, if incorrect at time of departure, constitutes a significant change to the
flight plan and as such must be reported.
12.8.3.1 Inadvertent Changes
In the event that a controlled flight inadvertently deviates from its current flight plan, the
following action shall be taken by Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) flight Crew:
A. Deviation from Track.
If the aircraft is off track, action shall be taken forthwith to adjust the heading of the aircraft to
regain track as soon as practicable.
B. Variation in True Airspeed.
If the average true airspeed at cruising level between reporting points varies or is expected
to vary by plus or minus 5% of the true airspeed, from that given in the flight plan, the
appropriate air traffic services unit shall be so informed.
C. Change in Time Estimate.
If the time estimates for the next applicable reporting point, flight information region
boundary, destination aerodrome, whichever comes first, is found to be in error in excess of
three minutes from that notified to air traffic services, or such other period of time as is
prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority or on the basis of air navigation regional
agreements, a revised estimated time shall be notified as soon as possible to the
appropriate air traffic services unit.
12.8.3.2 Intended Changes
Requests for flight plan changes shall include information as indicated hereunder.
A. Change of Cruising Level.
 Aircraft identification.
 Requested new cruising level and cruising speed at this level.
 Revised time estimates (when applicable) at subsequent flight information region
boundaries.
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B. Change of Route.
a. Destination Unchanged.
 Aircraft identifications.
 Flight rules.
 Description of new route of flight including related flight plan data beginning with the
position from which requested change of route is to commence.
 Revised time estimates.
 Any other pertinent information.
b. Destination Changed.
 Aircraft identification.
 Flight rules.
 Description of revised route of flight to revised destination aerodrome including related
the flight plan data, beginning with the position from which requested change of route
is to commence.
 Revised time estimates.
 Alternate aerodrome(s).
 Any other pertinent information.
Weather Deterioration below VMC
When it becomes evident that flight in VMC in accordance with its current flight plan will not be
practicable, VFR flight operated as a controlled flight shall:
A. Requests an amended clearance enabling the aircraft to continue in VMC to destination or
to an alternative aerodrome, or to leave the airspace within which an ATC clearance is
required;
Or
B. If no clearance in accordance with point A. above can be obtained, continue to operate in
VMC and notify the appropriate ATC unit of the action being taken either to leave the airspace
concerned or to land at the nearest suitable aerodrome;
Or
C. If operated within a control zone, request authorization to operate as a special VFR flight;
D. Request clearance to operate in accordance with the instrument flight rules.
12.8.4 Position Reports
Unless exempted by the appropriate ATS authority or by the appropriate air traffic services
unit under conditions specified by that authority, a controlled flight shall report to the
appropriate air traffic services unit, as soon as possible, the time and level of passing each
designated compulsory reporting point, together with any other required information. Position
reports shall similarly be made in relations to additional points when requested by the
appropriate air traffic services unit. In the absence of designated reporting points, position
reports shall be made at intervals prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority or specified by
the appropriate air traffic services unit.
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12.8.5 Closing a Flight Plan
Unless otherwise prescribed by the appropriate ATS authority, a report of arrival shall be made
either in person or by radio at the earliest possible moment after landing, to the appropriate air
traffic services unit at the arrival aerodrome, by any flight for which a flight plan has been
submitted covering the entire flight or the remaining portion of a flight to the destination
aerodrome.
When a flight plan has been submitted only a respect of a portion of a flight, other than the
remaining portion of a flight to destination, it shall, when required, be closed by an
appropriate report to the relevant air traffic services unit.
When no air traffic services unit exists at the arrival aerodrome, the arrival report, when
required, shall be made as soon as practicable after landing and by the quickest means
available to the nearest air traffic services unit.
When communication facilities at the arrival aerodrome are known to be inadequate and
alternate arrangements for the handling of arrival reports on the ground are not available, the
following action shall be taken; immediately prior to landing the aircraft shall, if practicable,
transmit by radio to an appropriate air traffic services unit, a message comparable to an arrival
report, where such a report is required. Normally, this transmission shall be made to the
aeronautical station serving the air traffic services unit in charge of the flight information region
in which the aircraft is operated. Arrival reports made by aircraft shall contain the following
elements of information:
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
Aircraft identification;
Departure aerodrome;
Destination aerodrome (only in the case of a diversionary landing);
Arrival aerodrome;
Time of arrival.
Note. Whenever an arrival report is required, failure to comply with these provisions
may cause serious disruption in the air traffic services and incur great expense
in carrying out unnecessary search and rescue operations.
12.8.6 Termination of Control
A controlled flight shall, except when landing at a controlled aerodrome, advise the
appropriate ATC unit as soon as it ceases to be subject to air traffic control service.
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12.9 VISUAL SIGNALS USED TO WARN AN UNAUTHORIZED AIRPLANE FLYING IN, OR
ABOUT TO ENTER A RESTRICTED, PROHIBITED OR DANGER AREA. (RACD 14,
APPENDIX 2)
By day and night, series of projectiles discharged from the ground at intervals of 10 seconds,
each showing, on bursting, red and green lights or stars will indicate to an unauthorized
Airplane that it is flying in or about to enter a restricted, prohibited or danger area, and that the
Airplane is to take such remedial action as may be necessary.
Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) has described these visual signals within the
Operations Manual Part C chapter 7.
12.10 PROCEDURES FOR PILOTS OBSERVING AN ACCIDENT OR RECEIVING A
DISTRESS TRANSMISSION (RACD 14.5.7)
12.10.1 Pilots-in-command Observing an Accident
When a Compagnie Africaine d'Aviation (CAA) pilot-in-command observes that either another
Airplane or a surface craft is in distress, he/she shall, unless unable to, or in the circumstances
of the case considers it unreasonable or unnecessary:
a) Keep in sight the craft in distress until such time as his/her presence is no longer
necessary;
b) If position is not known with certainty, take such action that will facilitate the
determination of it;
c) Report to the rescue co-ordination centre or air traffic services unit as much of the
following information as possible:
 Type of aircraft in distress, its identification and condition;
 Its position, expressed in geographical co-ordinates or in distance and true bearing
from a distinctive landmark or from a radio navigation aid;
 Time of observation expressed in hours and minutes UTC;
 Number of persons observed;
 Whether persons have been seen to abandon the craft in distress;
 Number of persons observed to be afloat;
 Apparent physical condition of survivors;
d) act as instructed by the rescue co-ordination centre or the air traffic services unit.
12.10.2 Pilot-in-command Receiving a Distress Transmission
Whenever a distress signal and/or message or equivalent transmission is intercepted
on radiotelegraphy or radiotelephony by a pilot-in-command of an Airplane, he/she
shall:
a) Record the position of the Airplane in distress if given;
b) If possible take a bearing on the transmission;
c) Inform the appropriate rescue co-ordination centre or air traffic services unit of the distress
transmission, giving all available information;
d) At his/her discretion, while awaiting instructions, proceed to the position given in the
transmission.
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12.11 GROUND VISUAL SIGNAL CODES FOR USE BY SURVIVORS (RACD 14.5.8 and
APPENDIX 2)
Message Code Symbol
See OM Part C chapter 7
Air To Ground Signals
The following signals by an Airplane mean that the ground signals have been
understood:
a) During the hours of daylight:
 by rocking the Airplane’s wings;
b) During the hours of darkness:
 Flashing on and off the Airplane’s landing lights twice or, if not so equipped, by
switching on and off its navigation lights twice.
12.12 DISTRESS AND URGENCY SIGNALS (RACD 14.5.6)
12.12.1 Distress Signal
The following signal means that grave and imminent danger threatens, and immediate
assistance is requested:
a) A radiotelephony distress signal consisting of spoken word MAYDAY preferably spoken
three times.
12.12.2 Urgency Signals
The following signals, used either together or separately, mean that an Airplane wishes to give
notice of difficulties which compel it to land without requiring immediate
assistance:
a) The repeated switching on and off of landing lights; or
b) The repeated switching on and off of the navigation lights in such manner as to be distinct
from flashing navigation lights.
The following signal means that an Airplane has a very urgent message to transmit
concerning the safety of a ship, Airplane or other vehicle, or of some person on board
or within sight:
a) a radiotelephony urgency signal consisting of spoken words PAN, PAN preferably spoken
three times.
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