AN02 9ed
AN02 9ed
AN02 9ed
ANNEX 2
TO THE CONVENTION ON INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION
The issue of amendments is announced regularly in the ICAO Journal and in the
monthly Supplement to the Catalogue of ICAO Publications and Audio-visual
Training Aids, which holders of this publication should consult. The space below
is provided to keep a record of such amendments.
AMENDMENTS CORRIGENDA
34 5/11/98 — ICAO
35 4/11/99 — ICAO
36 1/11/01 — ICAO
(ii)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page Page
Flight over the high seas. It should be noted that the Use of the text of the Annex in national regulations. The
Council resolved, in adopting Annex 2 in April 1948 and Council, on 13 April 1948, adopted a resolution inviting the
Amendment 1 to the said Annex in November 1951, that the attention of Contracting States to the desirability of using in
Annex constitutes Rules relating to the flight and manoeuvre of their own national regulations, as far as practicable, the
aircraft within the meaning of Article 12 of the Convention. precise language of those ICAO Standards that are of a
Over the high seas, therefore, these rules apply without regulatory character and also of indicating departures from the
exception. Standards, including any additional national regulations
An Annex is made up of the following component parts, not b) Introductions comprising explanatory material
all of which, however, are necessarily found in every Annex; introduced at the beginning of parts, chapters or
they have the status indicated: sections of the Annex to assist in the understanding
of the application of the text.
1. — Material comprising the Annex proper:
c) Notes included in the text, where appropriate, to give
factual information or references bearing on the
a) Standards and Recommended Practices adopted by
Standards or Recommended Practices in question,
the Council under the provisions of the Convention.
but not constituting part of the Standards or
They are defined as follows:
Recommended Practices.
Standard. Any specification for physical character- d) Attachments comprising material supplementary to
istics, configuration, matériel, performance, the Standards and Recommended Practices, or
personnel or procedure, the uniform application of included as a guide to their application.
which is recognized as necessary for the safety or
regularity of international air navigation and to
which Contracting States will conform in accordance
with the Convention; in the event of impossibility of Selection of language
compliance, notification to the Council is com-
pulsory under Article 38. This Annex has been adopted in six languages — English,
Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian and Spanish. Each Con-
Recommended Practice. Any specification for tracting State is requested to select one of those texts for the
physical characteristics, configuration, matériel, purpose of national implementation and for other effects
performance, personnel or procedure, the uniform provided for in the Convention, either through direct use or
application of which is recognized as desirable in the through translation into its own national language, and to
interests of safety, regularity or efficiency of inter- notify the Organization accordingly.
national air navigation, and to which Contracting
States will endeavour to conform in accordance with
the Convention.
Editorial practices
b) Appendices comprising material grouped separately
for convenience but forming part of the Standards The following practice has been adhered to in order to indicate
and Recommended Practices adopted by the at a glance the status of each statement: Standards have been
Council. printed in light face roman; Notes have been printed in light
face italics, the status being indicated by the prefix Note.
c) Definitions of terms used in the Standards and Rec- There are no Recommended Practices in Annex 2.
ommended Practices which are not self-explanatory
in that they do not have accepted dictionary The units of measurement used in this document are in
meanings. A definition does not have an independent accordance with the International System of Units (SI) as
status but is an essential part of each Standard and specified in Annex 5 to the Convention on International Civil
Recommended Practice in which the term is used, Aviation. Where Annex 5 permits the use of non-SI alternative
since a change in the meaning of the term would units these are shown in parentheses following the basic units.
affect the specification. Where two sets of units are quoted it must not be assumed that
the pairs of values are equal and interchangeable. It may,
d) Tables and Figures which add to or illustrate a however, be inferred that an equivalent level of safety is
Standard or Recommended Practice and which are achieved when either set of units is used exclusively.
referred to therein, form part of the associated
Standard or Recommended Practice and have the Any reference to a portion of this document which is
same status. identified by a number includes all subdivisions of the portion.
19/2/96
14/11/91 (vi)
No. 32
Foreword Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Table A. Amendments to Annex 2
Adopted/approved
Effective
Amendment Source(s) Subject(s) Applicable
1st Edition RAC Division, Standards and Recommended Practices — Rules of the Air. 15 April 1948
(1948) Second Session 15 September 1948
(1947) —
1 RAC Division, Complete revision and rearrangement of the Annex. 27 November 1951
(2nd Edition) Fourth Session (1950) 1 April 1952
1 September 1952
3 Second Definitions and terminology; VFR flight outside controlled airspace; 11 May 1956
(3rd Edition) Air Navigation distress and urgency signals; signals for aerodrome traffic; marshalling 15 September 1956
Conference (1955) signals. 1 December 1956
4 Air Navigation Guidance material on the application of the definitions of danger area; 14 November 1958
Commission prohibited area and restricted area. —
—
5 RAC/SAR Divisions Definitions; prohibition of VFR flights at night within controlled airspace; 8 December 1959
(4th Edition) Meeting (1958); avoidance of collisions; flight plans; visual and instrument flight rules; 1 May 1960
Air Navigation SELCAL; marshalling signals. 1 August 1960
Commission
6 RAC/SAR Divisions VFR flight; table of cruising levels; aircraft navigation lights. 13 December 1961
Meeting (1958); 1 April 1962
Airworthiness 1 July 1962
Committee, Fourth
Meeting (1960)
7 Fourth North Application of table of cruising levels in polar areas. 27 June 1962
Atlantic Regional 1 November 1962
Air Navigation 1 December 1962
Meeting (1961)
8 RAC/OPS Divisional Definitions; provisions regarding flight level and altitudes; submission 29 November 1965
(5th Edition) Meeting (1963); of flight plans; establishment of a single table of VFR criteria; prohibition 29 March 1966
Air Navigation of VFR flights at night in uncontrolled airspace and above FL 200; 25 August 1966
Commission communications for IFR flights outside controlled airspace; replacement
of quadrantal table of cruising levels by a semi-circular table; vertical
separation above FL 290.
9 Air Navigation Guidance material; excerpts from the International Regulations for 29 November 1965
Commission Preventing Collisions at Sea. —
—
10 Air Traffic Control Flight plans; deletion of guidance material regarding the International 7 June 1967
Automation Panel Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea and of the associated 5 October 1967
(ATCAP), Fifth application Standard. 8 February 1968
Meeting (1966);
Air Navigation
Commission
(vii) 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Foreword
Adopted/approved
Effective
Amendment Source(s) Subject(s) Applicable
11 Fifth Air Navigation Air traffic services reporting office; marshalling signals. 23 January 1969
Conference (1967) 23 May 1969
18 September 1969
12 Sixth Air Navigation Definitions; minimum heights/levels; controlled VFR flights; 25 May 1970
(6th Edition) Conference (1969) new terminology for designating controlled airspace. 25 September 1970
4 February 1971
14 Air Navigation Authority over aircraft operating over the high seas. 15 November 1972
Commission 15 March 1973
16 August 1973
17 Council action in Practices to be followed in the event that an aircraft is being subjected to 7 December 1973
pursuance of Assembly unlawful interference. 7 April 1974
Resolutions A17-10 and 23 May 1974
A18-10
18 Air Navigation Radiocommunication failure procedures; Note concerning lease, charter 8 April 1974
Commission and interchange of aircraft. 8 August 1974
27 February 1975
19 Technical Panel on Action by an aircraft which is being intercepted; visual signals for use in 4 February 1975
Supersonic Transport the event of interception; guidance material to assist States in eliminating 4 June 1975
Operations (SSTP), or reducing interceptions; provision relating to flight at transonic and 9 October 1975
Fourth Meeting (1973); supersonic speeds; changes to reflect the concept of cruise climbs.
Air Navigation
Commission
20 Air Navigation Time-keeping accuracy in ATS units and on board aircraft; use of SSR 7 April 1976
Commission code 7500 in the event of unlawful interference. 7 August 1976
30 December 1976
21 Ninth Air Navigation Definitions relating to change-over points and transition altitudes; 7 December 1977
Conference (1976) requirement for aircraft to adhere to the centre line of ATS routes 7 April 1978
and to comply with change-over points; cruising levels; flight plans 10 August 1978
and position reports; alignment of the definition of flight level with
that in Annex 3 and Annex 10, Volume II.
14/11/91 (viii)
Foreword Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Adopted/approved
Effective
Amendment Source(s) Subject(s) Applicable
22 Air Navigation Unmanned free balloons; estimated time of arrival. 2 March 1981
Commission 2 July 1981
26 November 1981
25 Air Navigation Definitions relating to height, instrument approach procedure, 21 March 1983
Commission; AGA manoeuvring and movement area, taxiing, and taxiway; use of the 29 July 1983
Divisional Meeting (1981) phrase “HIJACK” in the event of interception of civil aircraft; note 24 November 1983
regarding lease, charter or interchange of aircraft; provisions related to
surface movement of aircraft and taxiing; series 2 signals used by
helicopters in the event of interception; units of measurement.
26 ATS Data Acquisition, Definitions; contents of flight plans; repetitive flight plans; ATS data 22 June 1984
Processing and Transfer interchange; pronunciations to be used by intercepting aircraft; 22 October 1984
Panel, Third Meeting alignment of the radiotelephony urgency signal with Annex 10, 21 November 1985
(1981); Air Navigation Volume II; Co-ordinated Universal Time (UTC).
Commission
27 Council; Air Navigation Identification and interception of civil aircraft. 10 March 1986
(8th Edition) Commission 27 July 1986
20 November 1986
28 Air Navigation Definition of “apron”; special procedures for use during unlawful 16 March 1987
Commission interference. 27 July 1987
19 November 1987
29 Visual Flight Rules Operation of aircraft in mixed VFR/IFR environments; surface 12 March 1990
(9th Edition) Operations Panel, Third movement of aircraft and surface movement guidance and control; 30 July 1990
Meeting (1986); acts of unlawful interference; helicopters as intercepting aircraft. 14 November 1991
Secretariat; Visual Aids
Panel, Eleventh Meeting
(1987); Air Navigation
Commission; amendments
consequential to adoption
of amendments to
Annex 6
30 Secondary Surveillance Definitions; airborne collision avoidance system (ACAS). 26 February 1993
Radar Improvements and 26 July 1993
Collision Avoidance 11 November 1993
Systems Panel, Fourth
Meeting (SICASP/4)
(1989)
31 Review of the General Definitions; air-taxiing; separation between aircraft; formation flights 18 March 1994
Concept of Separation by civil aircraft in controlled airspace; automatic dependent surveillance 25 July 1994
Panel, Seventh Meeting 10 November 1994
(1990); Air Navigation
Commission; Automatic
Dependent Surveillance
Panel, Second Meeting
(1992)
(ix) 10/11/94
14/11/91
No. 31
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Foreword
Adopted/approved
Effective
Amendment Source(s) Subject(s) Applicable
32 Air Navigation Note related to carriage requirements of airborne collision avoidance 19 February 1996
Commission systems. 19 February 1996
—
34 Automatic Dependent Definitions; automatic dependent surveillance systems and procedures; data 19 March 1998
Surveillance Panel, Fourth interchange between automated ATS systems; ATS applications for air-ground 20 July 1998
Meeting (1996); Review of data links; problematic use of psychoactive substances. 5 November 1998
the General Concept of
Separation Panel,
Ninth Meeting (1996);
consequential to
Amendment 162 to
Annex 1
35 Air Navigation ATS airspace classifications; visual meteorological conditions clearance; 10 March 1999
Commission; Visual runway-holding position. 19 July 1999
Aids Panel, Thirteenth 4 November 1999
Meeting (1997)
36 Consequential as a Revised definitions of “air traffic control unit”, “approach control unit”, 12 March 2001
result of Amendment 40 to “alternate aerodrome” “flight crew member”, “pilot-in-command” and 16 July 2001
Annex 11; Amendments 23 “visibility”; editorial amendments. 1 November 2001
and 25 to Annex 6, Part I;
Amendments 20 and 7 to
Annex 6, Parts II and III,
respectively; and
Amendment 72 to Annex 3
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No. 36
INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS
CHAPTER 1. DEFINITIONS
Note.— Throughout the text of this document the term Aerodrome control tower. A unit established to provide air
“service” is used as an abstract noun to designate functions, traffic control service to aerodrome traffic.
or service rendered; the term “unit” is used to designate a
collective body performing a service. Aerodrome traffic. All traffic on the manoeuvring area of an
aerodrome and all aircraft flying in the vicinity of an
When the following terms are used in the International aerodrome.
Standards for Rules of the Air, they have the following
Note.— An aircraft is in the vicinity of an aerodrome when
meanings:
it is in, entering or leaving an aerodrome traffic circuit.
Acrobatic flight. Manoeuvres intentionally performed by an Aerodrome traffic zone. An airspace of defined dimensions
aircraft involving an abrupt change in its attitude, an established around an aerodrome for the protection of
abnormal attitude, or an abnormal variation in speed. aerodrome traffic.
ADS agreement. An ADS reporting plan which establishes the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP). A publication
conditions of ADS data reporting (i.e. data required by the issued by or with the authority of a State and containing
air traffic services unit and frequency of ADS reports which aeronautical information of a lasting character essential to
have to be agreed to prior to the provision of the ADS air navigation.
services).
Aeronautical station. A land station in the aeronautical mobile
Note.— The terms of the agreement will be exchanged service. In certain instances, an aeronautical station may be
between the ground system and the aircraft by means of a located, for example, on board ship or on a platform at sea.
contract, or a series of contracts.
Aeroplane. A power-driven heavier-than-air aircraft, deriving
its lift in flight chiefly from aerodynamic reactions on
ADS contract. A means by which the terms of an ADS surfaces which remain fixed under given conditions of
agreement will be exchanged between the ground system flight.
and the aircraft, specifying under what conditions ADS
reports would be initiated, and what data would be Airborne collision avoidance system (ACAS). An aircraft
contained in the reports. system based on secondary surveillance radar (SSR)
transponder signals which operates independently of
Note.— The term “ADS contract” is a generic term ground-based equipment to provide advice to the pilot on
meaning variously, ADS event contract, ADS demand contract, potential conflicting aircraft that are equipped with SSR
ADS periodic contract or an emergency mode. Ground transponders.
forwarding of ADS reports may be implemented between
ground systems. Aircraft. Any machine that can derive support in the
atmosphere from the reactions of the air other than the
Advisory airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions, or reactions of the air against the earth’s surface.
designated route, within which air traffic advisory service
is available. Air-ground control radio station. An aeronautical
telecommunication station having primary responsibility
for handling communications pertaining to the operation
Advisory route. A designated route along which air traffic
and control of aircraft in a given area.
advisory service is available.
Air-taxiing. Movement of a helicopter/VTOL above the
Aerodrome. A defined area on land or water (including any surface of an aerodrome, normally in ground effect and at
buildings, installations and equipment) intended to be used a ground speed normally less than 37 km/h (20 kt).
either wholly or in part for the arrival, departure and
surface movement of aircraft. Note.— The actual height may vary, and some helicopters
may require air-taxiing above 8 m (25 ft) AGL to reduce
Aerodrome control service. Air traffic control service for ground effect turbulence or provide clearance for cargo
aerodrome traffic. slingloads.
ANNEX 2 1 5/11/98
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Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 1
Air traffic. All aircraft in flight or operating on the Airway. A control area or portion thereof established in the
manoeuvring area of an aerodrome. form of a corridor.
Air traffic advisory service. A service provided within Alerting service. A service provided to notify appropriate
advisory airspace to ensure separation, in so far as practical, organizations regarding aircraft in need of search and
between aircraft which are operating on IFR flight plans. rescue aid, and assist such organizations as required.
Air traffic control clearance. Authorization for an aircraft to Alternate aerodrome. An aerodrome to which an aircraft may
proceed under conditions specified by an air traffic control proceed when it becomes either impossible or inadvisable
unit. to proceed to or to land at the aerodrome of intended
landing. Alternate aerodromes include the following:
Note 1.— For convenience, the term “air traffic control
clearance” is frequently abbreviated to “clearance” when
used in appropriate contexts. Take-off alternate. An alternate aerodrome at which an
aircraft can land should this become necessary shortly after
Note 2.— The abbreviated term “clearance” may be take-off and it is not possible to use the aerodrome of
prefixed by the words “taxi”, “take-off”, “departure”, “en departure.
route”, “approach” or “landing” to indicate the particular
portion of flight to which the air traffic control clearance En-route alternate. An aerodrome at which an aircraft
relates. would be able to land after experiencing an abnormal or
emergency condition while en route.
Air traffic control service. A service provided for the purpose
of: ETOPS en-route alternate. A suitable and appropriate
alternate aerodrome at which an aeroplane would be able to
a) preventing collisions: land after experiencing an engine shut-down or other
abnormal or emergency condition while en route in an
1) between aircraft, and
ETOPS operation.
2) on the manoeuvring area between aircraft and
obstructions, and Destination alternate. An alternate aerodrome to which an
aircraft may proceed should it become either impossible or
b) expediting and maintaining an orderly flow of air traffic. inadvisable to land at the aerodrome of intended landing.
Air traffic control unit. A generic term meaning variously, Note.— The aerodrome from which a flight departs may
area control centre, approach control unit or aerodrome also be an en-route or a destination alternate aerodrome for
control tower. that flight.
Air traffic service. A generic term meaning variously, flight Altitude. The vertical distance of a level, a point or an object
information service, alerting service, air traffic advisory considered as a point, measured from mean sea level
service, air traffic control service (area control service, (MSL).
approach control service or aerodrome control service).
Approach control service. Air traffic control service for
Air traffic services airspaces. Airspaces of defined
arriving or departing controlled flights.
dimensions, alphabetically designated, within which
specific types of flights may operate and for which air
Approach control unit. A unit established to provide air traffic
traffic services and rules of operation are specified.
control service to controlled flights arriving at, or departing
from, one or more aerodromes.
Note.— ATS airspaces are classified as Class A to G.
Air traffic services reporting office. A unit established for the Appropriate ATS authority. The relevant authority designated
purpose of receiving reports concerning air traffic services by the State responsible for providing air traffic services in
and flight plans submitted before departure. the airspace concerned.
Air traffic services unit. A generic term meaning variously, air b) Regarding flight other than over the high seas: The
traffic control unit, flight information centre or air traffic relevant authority of the State having sovereignty over
services reporting office. the territory being overflown.
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Chapter 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Apron. A defined area, on a land aerodrome, intended to Controlled airspace. An airspace of defined dimensions within
accommodate aircraft for purposes of loading or unloading which air traffic control service is provided in accordance
passengers, mail or cargo, fuelling, parking or maintenance. with the airspace classification.
Area control centre. A unit established to provide air traffic Note.— Controlled airspace is a generic term which covers
control service to controlled flights in control areas under ATS airspace Classes A, B, C, D and E as described in
its jurisdiction. Annex 11, 2.6.
Area control service. Air traffic control service for controlled Controlled flight. Any flight which is subject to an air traffic
flights in control areas. control clearance.
ATS route. A specified route designed for channelling the Controller-pilot data link communications (CPDLC). A
flow of traffic as necessary for the provision of air traffic means of communication between controller and pilot,
services. using data link for ATC communications.
Note 1.— The term “ATS route” is used to mean variously, Control zone. A controlled airspace extending upwards from
airway, advisory route, controlled or uncontrolled route, the surface of the earth to a specified upper limit.
arrival or departure route, etc.
Cruise climb. An aeroplane cruising technique resulting in a
Note 2.— An ATS route is defined by route specifications
net increase in altitude as the aeroplane mass decreases.
which include an ATS route designator, the track to or from
significant points (way-points), distance between significant
Cruising level. A level maintained during a significant portion
points, reporting requirements and, as determined by the
of a flight.
appropriate ATS authority, the lowest safe altitude.
Automatic dependent surveillance (ADS). A surveillance Current flight plan. The flight plan, including changes, if any,
technique in which aircraft automatically provide, via a data brought about by subsequent clearances.
link, data derived from on-board navigation and position-
fixing systems, including aircraft identification, four- Danger area. An airspace of defined dimensions within which
dimensional position and additional data as appropriate. activities dangerous to the flight of aircraft may exist at
specified times.
Ceiling. The height above the ground or water of the base of
the lowest layer of cloud below 6 000 metres (20 000 feet) Data link communications. A form of communication
covering more than half the sky. intended for the exchange of messages via a data link.
Change-over point. The point at which an aircraft navigating Estimated off-block time. The estimated time at which the
on an ATS route segment defined by reference to very high aircraft will commence movement associated with
frequency omnidirectional radio ranges is expected to departure.
transfer its primary navigational reference from the facility
behind the aircraft to the next facility ahead of the aircraft. Estimated time of arrival. For IFR flights, the time at which
it is estimated that the aircraft will arrive over that
Note.— Change-over points are established to provide the designated point, defined by reference to navigation aids,
optimum balance in respect of signal strength and quality from which it is intended that an instrument approach
between facilities at all levels to be used and to ensure a procedure will be commenced, or, if no navigation aid is
common source of azimuth guidance for all aircraft operating associated with the aerodrome, the time at which the
along the same portion of a route segment. aircraft will arrive over the aerodrome. For VFR flights, the
time at which it is estimated that the aircraft will arrive
Clearance limit. The point to which an aircraft is granted an over the aerodrome.
air traffic control clearance.
Expected approach time. The time at which ATC expects that
Control area. A controlled airspace extending upwards from a an arriving aircraft, following a delay, will leave the
specified limit above the earth. holding point to complete its approach for a landing.
Controlled aerodrome. An aerodrome at which air traffic Note.— The actual time of leaving the holding point will
control service is provided to aerodrome traffic. depend upon the approach clearance.
Note.— The term “controlled aerodrome” indicates that Filed flight plan. The flight plan as filed with an ATS unit by
air traffic control service is provided to aerodrome traffic but the pilot or a designated representative, without any
does not necessarily imply that a control zone exists. subsequent changes.
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Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 1
Flight crew member. A licensed crew member charged with IMC. The symbol used to designate instrument meteorological
duties essential to the operation of an aircraft during a flight conditions.
duty period.
Instrument approach procedure. A series of predetermined
Flight information centre. A unit established to provide flight manoeuvres by reference to flight instruments with
information service and alerting service. specified protection from obstacles from the initial
approach fix, or where applicable, from the beginning of a
Flight information region. An airspace of defined dimensions defined arrival route to a point from which a landing can be
within which flight information service and alerting service completed and thereafter, if a landing is not completed, to
are provided. a position at which holding or en-route obstacle clearance
criteria apply.
Flight information service. A service provided for the purpose
of giving advice and information useful for the safe and Instrument meteorological conditions. Meteorological
efficient conduct of flights. conditions expressed in terms of visibility, distance from
cloud, and ceiling, less than the minima specified for visual
Flight level. A surface of constant atmospheric pressure which meteorological conditions.
is related to a specific pressure datum, 1 013.2 hectopascals
(hPa), and is separated from other such surfaces by specific Note.— The specified minima for visual meteorological
pressure intervals. conditions are contained in Chapter 4.
Note 1.— A pressure type altimeter calibrated in Landing area. That part of a movement area intended for the
accordance with the Standard Atmosphere: landing or take-off of aircraft.
a) when set to a QNH altimeter setting, will indicate Level. A generic term relating to the vertical position of an
altitude; aircraft in flight and meaning variously, height, altitude or
flight level.
b) when set to a QFE altimeter setting, will indicate height
above the QFE reference datum; Manoeuvring area. That part of an aerodrome to be used for
the take-off, landing and taxiing of aircraft, excluding
c) when set to a pressure of 1 013.2 hPa, may be used to aprons.
indicate flight levels.
Movement area. That part of an aerodrome to be used for the
Note 2.— The terms “height” and “altitude”, used in
take-off, landing and taxiing of aircraft, consisting of the
Note 1 above, indicate altimetric rather than geometric
manoeuvring area and the apron(s).
heights and altitudes.
Pilot-in-command. The pilot designated by the operator, or in
Flight plan. Specified information provided to air traffic
the case of general aviation, the owner, as being in
services units, relative to an intended flight or portion of a
command and charged with the safe conduct of a flight.
flight of an aircraft.
Flight status. An indication of whether a given aircraft Pressure-altitude. An atmospheric pressure expressed in terms
requires special handling by air traffic services units or not. of altitude which corresponds to that pressure in the
Standard Atmosphere.*
Flight visibility. The visibility forward from the cockpit of an
aircraft in flight. Problematic use of substances. The use of one or more
psychoactive substances by aviation personnel in a way
Ground visibility. The visibility at an aerodrome, as reported that:
by an accredited observer.
a) constitutes a direct hazard to the user or endangers the
Heading. The direction in which the longitudinal axis of an lives, health or welfare of others; and/or
aircraft is pointed, usually expressed in degrees from North
(true, magnetic, compass or grid). b) causes or worsens an occupational, social, mental or
physical problem or disorder.
Height. The vertical distance of a level, a point or an object
considered as a point, measured from a specified datum. Prohibited area. An airspace of defined dimensions, above the
land areas or territorial waters of a State, within which the
IFR. The symbol used to designate the instrument flight rules. flight of aircraft is prohibited.
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Chapter 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Psychoactive substances. Alcohol, opioids, cannabinoids, c) Rapid exit taxiway. A taxiway connected to a runway at
sedatives and hypnotics, cocaine, other psychostimulants, an acute angle and designed to allow landing aeroplanes
hallucinogens, and volatile solvents, whereas coffee and to turn off at higher speeds than are achieved on other exit
tobacco are excluded. taxiways thereby minimizing runway occupancy times.
Radiotelephony. A form of radiocommunication primarily Terminal control area. A control area normally established at
intended for the exchange of information in the form of the confluence of ATS routes in the vicinity of one or more
speech. major aerodromes.
Restricted area. An airspace of defined dimensions, above the Track. The projection on the earth’s surface of the path of an
land areas or territorial waters of a State, within which the aircraft, the direction of which path at any point is usually
flight of aircraft is restricted in accordance with certain expressed in degrees from North (true, magnetic or grid).
specified conditions.
Traffic avoidance advice. Advice provided by an air traffic
Runway. A defined rectangular area on a land aerodrome services unit specifying manoeuvres to assist a pilot to
prepared for the landing and take-off of aircraft. avoid a collision.
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5B
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CHAPTER 2. APPLICABILITY OF THE RULES OF THE AIR
2.1 Territorial application of Note 2.— A pilot may elect to fly in accordance with
the rules of the air instrument flight rules in visual meteorological conditions or
may be required to do so by the appropriate ATS authority.
2.1.1 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 2.3 Responsibility for compliance
the territory overflown. with the rules of the air
5/11/98
14/11/91 6 ANNEX 2
No. 34
CHAPTER 3. GENERAL RULES
Note.— The system of flight levels is prescribed in the c) a distance not exceeding 1 km (0.5 NM) laterally and
Procedures for Air Navigation Services — Aircraft Operations longitudinally and 30 m (100 ft) vertically from the
(Doc 8168). flight leader shall be maintained by each aircraft.
3.1.5 Towing
3.1.10 Prohibited areas and restricted areas
No aircraft or other object shall be towed by an aircraft, except
in accordance with requirements prescribed by the appropriate Aircraft shall not be flown in a prohibited area, or in a
authority and as indicated by relevant information, advice restricted area, the particulars of which have been duly
and/or clearance from the appropriate air traffic services unit. published, except in accordance with the conditions of the
ANNEX 2 7 10/11/94
No. 31
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 3
restrictions or by permission of the State over whose territory 3.2.2.4 Overtaking. An overtaking aircraft is an aircraft
the areas are established. that approaches another from the rear on a line forming an
angle of less than 70 degrees with the plane of symmetry of
the latter, i.e. is in such a position with reference to the other
aircraft that at night it should be unable to see either of the
3.2 Avoidance of collisions aircraft’s left (port) or right (starboard) navigation lights. An
aircraft that is being overtaken has the right-of-way and the
Note.— It is important that vigilance for the purpose of overtaking aircraft, whether climbing, descending or in
detecting potential collisions be not relaxed on board an horizontal flight, shall keep out of the way of the other aircraft
aircraft in flight, regardless of the type of flight or the class of by altering its heading to the right, and no subsequent change
airspace in which the aircraft is operating, and while in the relative positions of the two aircraft shall absolve the
operating on the movement area of an aerodrome. overtaking aircraft from this obligation until it is entirely past
and clear.
An aircraft shall not be operated in such proximity to other 3.2.2.5.1 An aircraft in flight, or operating on the ground
aircraft as to create a collision hazard. or water, shall give way to aircraft landing or in the final
stages of an approach to land.
3.2.2.2 Approaching head-on. When two aircraft are a) when two aircraft are approaching head on, or
approaching head-on or approximately so and there is danger approximately so, each shall stop or where practicable
of collision, each shall alter its heading to the right. alter its course to the right so as to keep well clear;
3.2.2.3 Converging. When two aircraft are converging at b) when two aircraft are on a converging course, the one
approximately the same level, the aircraft that has the other on which has the other on its right shall give way;
its right shall give way, except as follows:
c) an aircraft which is being overtaken by another aircraft
a) power-driven heavier-than-air aircraft shall give way to shall have the right-of-way and the overtaking aircraft
airships, gliders and balloons; shall keep well clear of the other aircraft.
b) airships shall give way to gliders and balloons; Note.— For the description of an overtaking aircraft see
3.2.2.4.
c) gliders shall give way to balloons;
3.2.2.7.2 An aircraft taxiing on the manoeurvring area
d) power-driven aircraft shall give way to aircraft which shall stop and hold at all runway-holding positions unless
are seen to be towing other aircraft or objects. otherwise authorized by the aerodrome control tower.
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Chapter 3 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Note.— For runway-holding position markings and related c) all aircraft operating on the movement area of an
signs, see Annex 14, Volume I, 5.2.9 and 5.4.2. aerodrome shall display lights intended to attract
attention to the aircraft; and
3.2.2.7.3 An aircraft taxiing on the manoeuvring area
shall stop and hold at all lighted stop bars and may proceed d) all aircraft on the movement area of an aerodrome
further when the lights are switched off. whose engines are running shall display lights which
indicate that fact.
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Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 3
3.2.5 Operation on and in the vicinity of authority, all aircraft on the water shall display lights as
an aerodrome required by the International Regulations for Preventing
Collisions at Sea (revised 1972) unless it is impractical for
An aircraft operated on or in the vicinity of an aerodrome them to do so, in which case they shall display lights as closely
shall, whether or not within an aerodrome traffic zone: similar as possible in characteristics and position to those
required by the International Regulations.
a) observe other aerodrome traffic for the purpose of
avoiding collision; Note 1.— Specifications for lights to be shown by
aeroplanes on the water are contained in the Appendices to
b) conform with or avoid the pattern of traffic formed by Parts I and II of Annex 6.
other aircraft in operation;
Note 2.— The International Regulations for Preventing
c) make all turns to the left, when approaching for a Collisions at Sea specify that the rules concerning lights shall
landing and after taking off, unless otherwise instructed; be complied with from sunset to sunrise. Any lesser period
between sunset and sunrise established in accordance with
d) land and take off into the wind unless safety, the 3.2.6.2 cannot, therefore, be applied in areas where the
runway configuration, or air traffic considerations International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea
determine that a different direction is preferable. apply, e.g. on the high seas.
3.2.6.1 When two aircraft or an aircraft and a vessel are b) any IFR flight within advisory airspace;
approaching one another and there is a risk of collision, the
aircraft shall proceed with careful regard to existing circum- c) any flight within or into designated areas, or along
stances and conditions including the limitations of the designated routes, when so required by the appropriate
respective craft. ATS authority to facilitate the provision of flight
information, alerting and search and rescue services;
3.2.6.1.1 Converging. An aircraft which has another
aircraft or a vessel on its right shall give way so as to keep d) any flight within or into designated areas, or along
well clear. designated routes, when so required by the appropriate
ATS authority to facilitate co-ordination with appro-
3.2.6.1.2 Approaching head-on. An aircraft approaching priate military units or with air traffic services units in
another aircraft or a vessel head-on, or approximately so, adjacent States in order to avoid the possible need for
shall alter its heading to the right to keep well clear. interception for the purpose of identification;
3.2.6.1.3 Overtaking. The aircraft or vessel which is e) any flight across international borders.
being overtaken has the right of way, and the one overtaking
shall alter its heading to keep well clear. Note.— The term “flight plan” is used to mean variously,
full information on all items comprised in the flight plan
3.2.6.1.4 Landing and taking off. Aircraft landing on or description, covering the whole route of a flight, or limited
taking off from the water shall, in so far as practicable, keep information required when the purpose is to obtain a
well clear of all vessels and avoid impeding their navigation. clearance for a minor portion of a flight such as to cross an
airway, to take off from, or to land at a controlled aerodrome.
3.2.6.2 Lights to be displayed by aircraft on the water.
Between sunset and sunrise or such other period between 3.3.1.3 A flight plan shall be submitted before departure
sunset and sunrise as may be prescribed by the appropriate to an air traffic services reporting office or, during flight,
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Chapter 3 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
transmitted to the appropriate air traffic services unit or air- Note 2.— For flight plans submitted during flight, the infor-
ground control radio station, unless arrangements have been mation to be provided in respect of this item will be the
made for submission of repetitive flight plans. time over the first point of the route to which the flight plan
relates.
3.3.1.4 Unless otherwise prescribed by the appropriate
ATS authority, a flight plan for a flight to be provided with air Note 3.— The term “aerodrome” where used in the flight
traffic control service or air traffic advisory service shall be plan is intended to cover also sites other than aerodromes
submitted at least sixty minutes before departure, or, if which may be used by certain types of aircraft, e.g. helicopters
submitted during flight, at a time which will ensure its receipt or balloons.
by the appropriate air traffic services unit at least ten minutes
before the aircraft is estimated to reach:
3.3.3 Completion of a flight plan
a) the intended point of entry into a control area or
advisory area; or 3.3.3.1 Whatever the purpose for which it is submitted, a
flight plan shall contain information, as applicable, on relevant
b) the point of crossing an airway or advisory route. items up to and including “Alternate aerodrome(s)” regarding
the whole route or the portion thereof for which the flight plan
is submitted.
3.3.2 Contents of a flight plan
3.3.3.2 It shall, in addition, contain information, as
A flight plan shall comprise information regarding such of the applicable, on all other items when so prescribed by the
following items as are considered relevant by the appropriate appropriate ATS authority or when otherwise deemed
ATS authority: necessary by the person submitting the flight plan.
— Aircraft identification
3.3.4 Changes to a flight plan
— Flight rules and type of flight
Subject to the provisions of 3.6.2.2, all changes to a flight plan
submitted for an IFR flight, or a VFR flight operated as a
— Number and type(s) of aircraft and wake turbulence
controlled flight, shall be reported as soon as practicable to the
category
appropriate air traffic services unit. For other VFR flights,
significant changes to a flight plan shall be reported as soon as
— Equipment
practicable to the appropriate air traffic services unit.
— Departure aerodrome (see Note 1)
Note 1.— Information submitted prior to departure
regarding fuel endurance or total number of persons carried
— Estimated off-block time (see Note 2)
on board, if incorrect at time of departure, constitutes a
significant change to the flight plan and as such must be
— Cruising speed(s)
reported.
— Cruising level(s)
Note 2.— Procedures for submission of changes to
repetitive flight plans are contained in the PANS-RAC, Part II
— Route to be followed
(Doc 4444).
— Destination aerodrome and total estimated elapsed time
3.3.5 Closing a flight plan
— Alternate aerodrome(s)
3.3.5.1 Unless otherwise prescribed by the appropriate
— Fuel endurance ATS authority, a report of arrival shall be made in person, by
radiotelephony or via data link at the earliest possible moment
— Total number of persons on board after landing, to the appropriate air traffic services unit at the
arrival aerodrome, by any flight for which a flight plan has
— Emergency and survival equipment been submitted covering the entire flight or the remaining
portion of a flight to the destination aerodrome.
— Other information.
3.3.5.2 When a flight plan has been submitted only in
Note 1.— For flight plans submitted during flight, the respect of a portion of a flight, other than the remaining
information provided in respect of this item will be an portion of a flight to destination, it shall, when required, be
indication of the location from which supplementary closed by an appropriate report to the relevant air traffic
information concerning the flight may be obtained, if required. services unit.
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Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 3
3.3.5.3 When no air traffic services unit exists at the Note.— Such time check is normally obtained from an air
arrival aerodrome, the arrival report, when required, shall be traffic services unit unless other arrangements have been
made as soon as practicable after landing and by the quickest made by the operator or by the appropriate ATS authority.
means available to the nearest air traffic services unit.
3.5.3 Wherever time is utilized in the application of data
3.3.5.4 When communication facilities at the arrival link communications, it shall be accurate to within 1 second of
aerodrome are known to be inadequate and alternate UTC.
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, 3.6 Air traffic control service
transmit to the 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 3.6.1 Air traffic control clearances
aeronautical station serving the air traffic services unit in
charge of the flight information region in which the aircraft is 3.6.1.1 An air traffic control clearance shall be obtained
operated. prior to operating a controlled flight, or a portion of a flight as
a controlled flight. Such clearance shall be requested through
3.3.5.5 Arrival reports made by aircraft shall contain the the submission of a flight plan to an air traffic control unit.
following elements of information:
Note 1.— A flight plan may cover only part of a flight, as
a) aircraft identification; necessary, to describe that portion of the flight or those
manoeuvres which are subject to air traffic control. A
b) departure aerodrome; clearance may cover only part of a current flight plan, as
indicated in a clearance limit or by reference to specific
c) destination aerodrome (only in the case of a diver- manoeuvres such as taxiing, landing or taking off.
sionary landing);
Note 2.— If an air traffic control clearance is not
d) arrival aerodrome; satisfactory to a pilot-in-command of an aircraft, the pilot-in-
command may request and, if practicable, will be issued an
e) time of arrival. amended clearance.
Note.— Whenever an arrival report is required, failure to 3.6.1.2 Whenever an aircraft has requested a clearance
comply with these provisions may cause serious disruption in involving priority, a report explaining the necessity for such
the air traffic services and incur great expense in carrying out priority shall be submitted, if requested by the appropriate air
unnecessary search and rescue operations. traffic control unit.
3.4.2 The signals of Appendix 1 shall, when used, have Note.— The intent of this provision is to facilitate a
the meaning indicated therein. They shall be used only for the reclearance to a revised destination, normally beyond the filed
purpose indicated and no other signals likely to be confused destination aerodrome.
with them shall be used.
3.6.1.4 An aircraft operated on a controlled aerodrome
shall not taxi on the manoeuvring area without clearance from
3.5 Time the aerodrome control tower and shall comply with any
instructions given by that unit.
3.5.1 Co-ordinated Universal Time (UTC) shall be used
and shall be expressed in hours and minutes and, when
required, seconds of the 24-hour day beginning at midnight. 3.6.2 Adherence to flight plan
3.5.2 A time check shall be obtained prior to operating a 3.6.2.1 Except as provided for in 3.6.2.2 and 3.6.2.4, an
controlled flight and at such other times during the flight as aircraft shall adhere to the current flight plan or the applicable
may be necessary. portion of a current flight plan submitted for a controlled flight
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Chapter 3 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
unless a request for a change has been made and clearance 3.6.2.3 Intended changes. Requests for flight plan
obtained from the appropriate air traffic control unit, or unless changes shall include information as indicated hereunder:
an emergency situation arises which necessitates immediate
action by the aircraft, in which event as soon as circumstances a) Change of cruising level: aircraft identification;
permit, after such emergency authority is exercised, the requested new cruising level and cruising speed at this
appropriate air traffic services unit shall be notified of the level, revised time estimates (when applicable) at
action taken and that this action has been taken under subsequent flight information region boundaries.
emergency authority.
b) Change of route:
3.6.2.1.1 Unless otherwise authorized or directed by the
appropriate air traffic control unit, controlled flights shall, in 1) Destination unchanged: aircraft identification; flight
so far as practicable: rules; description of new route of flight including
related flight plan data beginning with the position
a) when on an established ATS route, operate along the from which requested change of route is to
defined centre line of that route; or commence; revised time estimates; any other
pertinent information.
b) when on any other route, operate directly between the
navigation facilities and/or points defining that route. 2) Destination changed: aircraft identification; flight
rules; description of revised route of flight to revised
3.6.2.1.2 Subject to the overriding requirement in destination aerodrome including related flight plan
3.6.2.1.1, an aircraft operating along an ATS route segment data, beginning with the position from which
defined by reference to very high frequency omnidirectional requested change of route is to commence; revised
radio ranges shall change over for its primary navigation time estimates; alternate aerodrome(s); any other
guidance from the facility behind the aircraft to that ahead of pertinent information.
it at, or as close as operationally feasible to, the change-over
point, where established. 3.6.2.4 Weather deterioration below the VMC. When it
becomes evident that flight in VMC in accordance with its
3.6.2.1.3 Deviation from the requirements in 3.6.2.1.1 current flight plan will not be practicable, a VFR flight
shall be notified to the appropriate air traffic services unit. operated as a controlled flight shall:
3.6.2.2 Inadvertent changes. In the event that a controlled a) request an amended clearance enabling the aircraft to
flight inadvertently deviates from its current flight plan, the continue in VMC to destination or to an alternative
following action shall be taken: aerodrome, or to leave the airspace within which an
ATC clearance is required; or
a) Deviation from track: if the aircraft is off track, action
shall be taken forthwith to adjust the heading of the b) if no clearance in accordance with a) can be obtained,
aircraft to regain track as soon as practicable. continue to operate in VMC and notify the appropriate
ATC unit of the action being taken either to leave the
b) Variation in true airspeed: if the average true airspeed airspace concerned or to land at the nearest suitable
at cruising level between reporting points varies or is aerodrome; or
expected to vary by plus or minus 5 per cent of the true
airspeed, from that given in the flight plan, the c) if operated within a control zone, request authorization
appropriate air traffic services unit shall be so informed. to operate as a special VFR flight; or
c) Change in time estimate: if the time estimate for the d) request clearance to operate in accordance with the
next applicable reporting point, flight information region instrument flight rules.
boundary or 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 3.6.3 Position reports
period of time as is prescribed by the appropriate ATS
authority or on the basis of air navigation regional 3.6.3.1 Unless exempted by the appropriate ATS authority
agreements, a revised estimated time shall be notified as or by the appropriate air traffic services unit under conditions
soon as possible to the appropriate air traffic services specified by that authority, a controlled flight shall report to
unit. the appropriate air traffic services unit, as soon as possible, the
time and level of passing each designated compulsory
3.6.2.2.1 Additionally, when an ADS agreement is in reporting point, together with any other required information.
place, the air traffic services unit (ATSU) shall be informed Position reports shall similarly be made in relation to
automatically via data link whenever changes occur beyond additional points when requested by the appropriate air traffic
the threshold values stipulated by the ADS event contract. services unit. In the absence of designated reporting points,
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Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 3
position reports shall be made at intervals prescribed by the 3.6.5.2.2 If in instrument meteorological conditions or
appropriate ATS authority or specified by the appropriate air when conditions are such that it does not appear feasible to
traffic services unit. complete the flight in accordance with 3.6.5.2.1 (see Note 1),
the aircraft shall:
3.6.3.1.1 Controlled flights providing position information
to the appropriate air traffic services unit via data link com- a) unless otherwise prescribed on the basis of regional air
munications shall only provide voice position reports when navigation agreement, maintain the last assigned speed
requested. and level, or minimum flight altitude if higher, for a
period of 20 minutes following the aircraft’s failure to
Note.— The conditions and circumstances in which SSR report its position over a compulsory reporting point and
Mode C transmission of pressure-altitude satisfies the require- thereafter adjust level and speed in accordance with the
ment for level information in position reports are indicated in filed flight plan;
the PANS-RAC, Part II (Doc 4444).
b) proceed according to the current flight plan route to the
appropriate designated navigation aid serving the
destination aerodrome and, when required to ensure
3.6.4 Termination of control compliance with c) below, hold over this aid until
commencement of descent;
A controlled flight shall, except when landing at a controlled
aerodrome, advise the appropriate ATC unit as soon as it c) commence descent from the navigation aid specified in
ceases to be subject to air traffic control service. b) 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
3.6.5 Communications resulting from the current flight plan;
3.6.5.1 An aircraft operated as a controlled flight shall d) complete a normal instrument approach procedure as
maintain continuous air-ground voice communication watch specified for the designated navigation aid; and
on the appropriate communication channel of, and establish
two-way communication as necessary with, the appropriate air
e) land, if possible, within thirty minutes after the
traffic control unit, except as may be prescribed by the
estimated time of arrival specified in c) or the last
appropriate ATS authority in respect of aircraft forming part of
acknowledged expected approach time, whichever is
aerodrome traffic at a controlled aerodrome.
later.
Note 1.— SELCAL or similar automatic signalling devices
Note 1.— As evidenced by the meteorological conditions
satisfy the requirement to maintain an air-ground voice
prescribed therein, 3.6.5.2.1 relates to all controlled flights,
communication watch.
whereas 3.6.5.2.2 relates only to IFR flights.
Note 2.— The requirement for an aircraft to maintain air-
ground voice communication watch remains in effect after Note 2.— The provision of air traffic control service to
CPDLC has been established. other flights operating in the airspace concerned will be based
on the premise that an aircraft experiencing communication
3.6.5.2 Communication failure. If a communication failure failure will comply with the rules in 3.6.5.2.2.
precludes compliance with 3.6.5.1, the aircraft shall comply
with the communication failure procedures of Annex 10, Note 3.— See also 5.1.2.
Volume II, and with such of the following procedures as are
appropriate. In addition, the aircraft, when forming part of the
aerodrome traffic at a controlled aerodrome, shall keep a watch
for such instructions as may be issued by visual signals. 3.7 Unlawful interference
3.6.5.2.1 If in visual meteorological conditions, the An aircraft which is being subjected to unlawful interference
aircraft shall: shall endeavour to notify the appropriate ATS unit of this fact,
any significant circumstances associated therewith and any
a) continue to fly in visual meteorological conditions; deviation from the current flight plan necessitated by the
circumstances, in order to enable the ATS unit to give priority
b) land at the nearest suitable aerodrome; and to the aircraft and to minimize conflict with other aircraft.
c) report its arrival by the most expeditious means to the Note 1.— Responsibility of ATS units in situations of
appropriate air traffic control unit. unlawful interference is contained in Annex 11.
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Chapter 3 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Note 2.— Guidance material for use when unlawful appropriate regulations and administrative directives due
interference occurs and the aircraft is unable to notify an ATS regard shall be had to the provisions of Appendix 1, Section 2
unit of this fact is contained in Attachment B to this Annex. and Appendix 2, Section 1.
Note 3.— Action to be taken by SSR-equipped aircraft Note.— Recognizing that it is essential for the safety of
which are being subjected to unlawful interference is flight that any visual signals employed in the event of an
contained in Annex 11, the PANS-RAC (Doc 4444) and the interception which should be undertaken only as a last resort
PANS-OPS (Doc 8168). be correctly employed and understood by civil and military
aircraft throughout the world, the Council of the International
Civil Aviation Organization, when adopting the visual signals
Note 4.— Action to be taken by CPDLC-equipped aircraft in Appendix 1 to this Annex, urged Contracting States to
which are being subjected to unlawful interference is ensure that they be strictly adhered to by their State aircraft.
contained in Annex 11, the PANS-RAC (Doc 4444), and As interceptions of civil aircraft are, in all cases, potentially
guidance material on the subject is contained in the Manual of hazardous, the Council has also formulated special
Air Traffic Services Data Link Applications (Doc 9694). recommendations which Contracting States are urged to apply
in a uniform manner. These special recommendations are
contained in Attachment A.
3.8 Interception
3.8.2 The pilot-in-command of a civil aircraft, when
Note.— The word “interception” in this context does not intercepted, shall comply with the Standards in Appendix 2,
include intercept and escort service provided, on request, to Sections 2 and 3, interpreting and responding to visual signals
an aircraft in distress, in accordance with Volumes II and III as specified in Appendix 1, Section 2.
of the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and
Rescue Manual (Doc 9731). Note.— See also 2.1.1 and 3.4.
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34
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Chapter 3
Table 3-1*
(see 4.1)
Airspace class A***B C D E F G
ABOVE 900 m (3 000 ft) At and below 900 m
AMSL or above 300 m (3 000 ft) AMSL or 300 m
(1 000 ft) above terrain, (1 000 ft) above terrain,
whichever is the higher whichever is the higher
Distance from cloud 1 500 m horizontally Clear of cloud and
300 m (1 000 ft) vertically in sight of the surface
Flight visibility 8 km at and above 3 050 m (10 000 ft) AMSL 5 km**
5 km below 3 050 m (10 000 ft) AMSL
* 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.
1) at speeds that, in the prevailing visibility, will give adequate opportunity to observe other traffic or
any obstacles in time to avoid collision; or
2) 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) HELICOPTERS may be permitted to operate in less than 1 500 m flight visibility, if manoeuvred at a
speed that will give adequate opportunity to observe other traffic or any obstacles in time to avoid
collision.
***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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CHAPTER 4. VISUAL FLIGHT RULES
4.1 Except when operating as a special VFR flight, VFR 4.7 Except where otherwise indicated in air traffic control
flights shall be conducted so that the aircraft is flown in clearances or specified by the appropriate ATS authority, VFR
conditions of visibility and distance from clouds equal to or flights in level cruising flight when operated above 900 m
greater than those specified in Table 3-1. (3 000 ft) from the ground or water, or a higher datum as
specified by the appropriate ATS authority, shall be conducted
4.2 Except when a clearance is obtained from an air at a flight level appropriate to the track as specified in the
traffic control unit, VFR flights shall not take off or land at an Tables of cruising levels in Appendix 3.
aerodrome within a control zone, or enter the aerodrome traffic
zone or traffic pattern:
4.8 VFR flights shall comply with the provisions of 3.6:
a) when the ceiling is less than 450 m (1 500 ft); or
a) when operated within Classes B, C and D airspace;
b) when the ground visibility is less than 5 km.
4.3 VFR flights between sunset and sunrise, or such other b) when forming part of aerodrome traffic at controlled
period between sunset and sunrise as may be prescribed by the aerodromes; or
appropriate ATS authority, shall be operated in accordance
with the conditions prescribed by such authority. c) when operated as special VFR flights.
4.6 Except when necessary for take-off or landing, or 4.10 An aircraft operated in accordance with the visual
except by permission from the appropriate authority, a VFR flight rules which wishes to change to compliance with the
flight shall not be flown: instrument flight rules shall:
a) over the congested areas of cities, towns or settlements
or over an open-air assembly of persons at a height less a) if a flight plan was submitted, communicate the
than 300 m (1 000 ft) above the highest obstacle within necessary changes to be effected to its current flight
a radius of 600 m from the aircraft; plan, or
b) elsewhere than as specified in 4.6 a), at a height less b) when so required by 3.3.1.2, submit a flight plan to the
than 150 m (500 ft) above the ground or water. appropriate air traffic services unit and obtain a
clearance prior to proceeding IFR when in controlled
Note.— See also 3.1.2. airspace.
ANNEX 2 17 4/11/99
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CHAPTER 5. INSTRUMENT FLIGHT RULES
5.1 Rules applicable to all IFR flights 5.2 Rules applicable to IFR flights within
controlled airspace
5.1.1 Aircraft equipment 5.2.1 IFR flights shall comply with the provisions of 3.6
when operated in controlled airspace.
Aircraft shall be equipped with suitable instruments and with
navigation equipment appropriate to the route to be flown. 5.2.2 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:
5.1.2 Minimum levels
a) the Tables of cruising levels in Appendix 3, or
Except when necessary for take-off or landing, or except when
specifically authorized by the appropriate authority, an IFR b) a modified table of cruising levels, when so prescribed
flight shall be flown at a level which is not below the minimum in accordance with Appendix 3 for flight above FL 410,
flight altitude established by the State whose territory is
overflown, or, where no such minimum flight altitude has been except that the correlation of levels to track prescribed therein
established: shall not apply whenever otherwise indicated in air traffic
control clearances or specified by the appropriate ATS authority
a) over high terrain or in mountainous areas, at a level in Aeronautical Information Publications.
which is at least 600 m (2 000 ft) above the highest
obstacle located within 8 km of the estimated position of
the aircraft;
5.3 Rules applicable to IFR flights outside
b) elsewhere than as specified in a), at a level which is at
controlled airspace
least 300 m (1 000 ft) above the highest obstacle located
within 8 km of the estimated position of the aircraft.
5.3.1 Cruising levels
Note 1.— The estimated position of the aircraft will take
account of the navigational accuracy which can be achieved on
An IFR flight operating in level cruising flight outside of
the relevant route segment, having regard to the navigational
controlled airspace shall be flown at a cruising level appropriate
facilities available on the ground and in the aircraft.
to its track as specified in:
Note 2.— See also 3.1.2.
a) the Tables of cruising levels in Appendix 3, except
when otherwise specified by the appropriate ATS
authority for flight at or below 900 m (3 000 ft) above
mean sea level; or
5.1.3 Change from IFR flight to VFR flight
b) a modified table of cruising levels, when so prescribed
5.1.3.1 An aircraft electing to change the conduct of its
in accordance with Appendix 3 for flight above FL 410.
flight from compliance with the instrument flight rules to
compliance with the visual flight rules shall, if a flight plan was
Note.— This provision does not preclude the use of cruise
submitted, notify the appropriate air traffic services unit
climb techniques by aircraft in supersonic flight.
specifically that the IFR flight is cancelled and communicate
thereto the changes to be made to its current flight plan.
5/11/98 18 ANNEX 2
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Chapter 5 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
maintain an air-ground voice communication watch on the — maintain an air-ground voice communication watch
appropriate communication channel and establish two-way on the appropriate communication channel and
communication, as necessary, with the air traffic services unit establish two-way communication, as necessary, with
providing flight information service. the air traffic services unit providing flight
information service,
Note.— See Notes following 3.6.5.1.
shall report position as specified in 3.6.3 for controlled flights.
5.3.3 Position reports Note.— Aircraft electing to use the air traffic advisory
service whilst operating IFR within specified advisory airspace
An IFR flight operating outside controlled airspace and are expected to comply with the provisions of 3.6, except that the
required by the appropriate ATS authority to: flight plan and changes thereto are not subjected to clearances
and that two-way communication will be maintained with the
— submit a flight plan, unit providing the air traffic advisory service.
19 5/11/98
14/11/91
No. 34
APPENDIX 1. SIGNALS
(Note.— See Chapter 3, 3.4 of the Annex)
Note 1.— None of the provisions in this section shall prevent transmitted by hand but its transmission by means of an
the use, by an aircraft in distress, of any means at its disposal to automatic instrument is recommended.
attract attention, make known its position and obtain help.
3270 The radiotelephone alarm signal consists of two
Note 2.— For full details of telecommunication transmission substantially sinusoidal audio frequency tones transmitted
procedures for the distress and urgency signals, see Annex 10, alternately. One tone shall have a frequency of 2 200 Hz
Volume II, Chapter 5. and the other a frequency of 1 300 Hz, the duration of each
tone being 250 milliseconds.
Note 3.— For details of the search and rescue visual signals,
see Annex 12. 3271 The radiotelephone alarm signal, when generated
by automatic means, shall be sent continuously for a period
of at least thirty seconds but not exceeding one minute;
when generated by other means, the signal shall be sent as
1.1 Distress signals continuously as practicable over a period of approximately
one minute.
The following signals, used either together or separately, mean
that grave and imminent danger threatens, and immediate
assistance is requested: 1.2 Urgency signals
a) a signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other 1.2.1 The following signals, used either together or
signalling method consisting of the group SOS separately, mean that an aircraft wishes to give notice of
(. . . — — — . . . in the Morse Code); difficulties which compel it to land without requiring
immediate assistance:
b) a radiotelephony distress signal consisting of the spoken
word MAYDAY; a) the repeated switching on and off of the landing lights;
or
c) a distress message sent via data link which transmits the
b) the repeated switching on and off of the navigation
intent of the word MAYDAY;
lights in such manner as to be distinct from flashing
navigation lights.
d) rockets or shells throwing red lights, fired one at a time
at short intervals; 1.2.2 The following signals, used either together or
separately, mean that an aircraft has a very urgent message to
e) a parachute flare showing a red light. transmit concerning the safety of a ship, aircraft or other
vehicle, or of some person on board or within sight:
Note.— Article 41 of the ITU Radio Regulations (Nos. 3268,
3270 and 3271 refer) provides information on the alarm signals a) a signal made by radiotelegraphy or by any other
for actuating radiotelegraph and radiotelephone auto-alarm signalling method consisting of the group XXX;
systems:
b) a radiotelephony urgency signal consisting of the spoken
3268 The radiotelegraph alarm signal consists of a words PAN, PAN;
series of twelve dashes sent in one minute, the duration of
each dash being four seconds and the duration of the c) an urgency message sent via data link which transmits
interval between consecutive dashes one second. It may be the intent of the words PAN, PAN.
ANNEX 2 21 5/11/98
14/11/91
No. 34
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 1
2. SIGNALS FOR USE IN THE EVENT OF INTERCEPTION
1 DAY or NIGHT — Rocking aircraft and You have DAY or NIGHT — Rocking aircraft, flashing Understood,
flashing navigational lights at irregular been navigational lights at irregular intervals and will comply.
intervals (and landing lights in the case of a intercepted. following.
helicopter) from a position slightly above and Follow me.
ahead of, and normally to the left of, the Note.— Additional action required to be
intercepted aircraft (or to the right if the taken by intercepted aircraft is prescribed in
intercepted aircraft is a helicopter) and, after Chapter 3, 3.8.
acknowledgement, a slow level turn, normally
to the left, (or to the right in the case of a
helicopter) on the desired heading.
2 DAY or NIGHT — An abrupt break-away You may DAY or NIGHT — Rocking the aircraft. Understood,
manoeuvre from the intercepted aircraft proceed. will comply.
consisting of a climbing turn of 90 degrees or
more without crossing the line of flight of the
intercepted aircraft.
3 DAY or NIGHT — Lowering landing gear (if Land at this DAY or NIGHT — Lowering landing gear, Understood,
fitted), showing steady landing lights and aerodrome. (if fitted), showing steady landing lights and will comply.
overflying runway in use or, if the intercepted following the intercepting aircraft and, if,
aircraft is a helicopter, overflying the helicopter after overflying the runway in use or
landing area. In the case of helicopters, the helicopter landing area, landing is considered
intercepting helicopter makes a landing safe, proceeding to land.
approach, coming to hover near to the landing
area.
4 DAY or NIGHT — Raising landing gear (if Aerodrome DAY or NIGHT — If it is desired that the Understood,
fitted) and flashing landing lights while passing you have intercepted aircraft follow the intercepting follow me.
over runway in use or helicopter landing area designated is aircraft to an alternate aerodrome, the
at a height exceeding 300 m (1 000 ft) but not inadequate. intercepting aircraft raises its landing gear (if
exceeding 600 m (2 000 ft) (in the case of a fitted) and uses the Series 1 signals
helicopter, at a height exceeding 50 m (170 ft) prescribed for intercepting aircraft.
but not exceeding 100 m (330 ft)) above the
aerodrome level, and continuing to circle If it is decided to release the intercepted Understood, you
runway in use or helicopter landing area. If aircraft, the intercepting aircraft uses the may proceed.
unable to flash landing lights, flash any other Series 2 signals prescribed for intercepting
lights available. aircraft.
5 DAY or NIGHT — Regular switching on and Cannot DAY or NIGHT — Use Series 2 signals Understood.
off of all available lights but in such a manner comply. prescribed for intercepting aircraft.
as to be distinct from flashing lights.
6 DAY or NIGHT — Irregular flashing of all In distress. DAY or NIGHT — Use Series 2 signals Understood.
available lights. prescribed for intercepting aircraft.
14/11/91 22
Appendix 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
By day and by night, a series of projectiles discharged from unauthorized aircraft that it is flying in or about to enter a
the ground at intervals of 10 seconds, each showing, on restricted, prohibited or danger area, and that the aircraft is to
bursting, red and green lights or stars will indicate to an take such remedial action as may be necessary.
4.1.1 Instructions
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FOR THE TIME BEING
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Corr. 5 23 14/11/91
30/11/01
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 1
4.1.2 Acknowledgement by an aircraft
a) When in flight:
14/11/91 24
Appendix 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
4.2.5 Directions for landing or take-off
25 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 1
5. MARSHALLING SIGNALS
5.1.1 Prior to using the following signals, the signalman Right or left arm down,
shall ascertain that the area within which an aircraft is to be other arm moved
guided is clear of objects which the aircraft, in complying with across the body and
3.4.1, might otherwise strike. extended to indicate
direction of next
Note.— The design of many aircraft is such that the path of signalman.
the wing tips, engines and other extremities cannot always be
monitored visually from the flight deck while the aircraft is
being manoeuvred on the ground.
14/11/91 26
Appendix 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
5. Turn 8. Chocks
27 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 1
14/11/91 28
Appendix 1 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
5.2 From the pilot of an aircraft
*19. Move horizontally to a signalman
Appropriate arm Note 1.— These signals are designed for use by a pilot in the
extended horizon- cockpit with hands plainly visible to the signalman, and
tally sideways in illuminated as necessary to facilitate observation by the
direction of move- signalman.
ment and other arm
moved in front of Note 2.— The aircraft engines are numbered in relation to
body in same the signalman facing the aircraft, from right to left (i.e. No. 1
direction, in a engine being the port outer engine).
repeating
movement.
5.2.1 Brakes
5.2.2 Chocks
29 14/11/91
APPENDIX 2. INTERCEPTION OF CIVIL AIRCRAFT
(Note.— See Chapter 3, 3.8 of the Annex)
1.1 To achieve the uniformity in regulations which is 2.1 An aircraft which is intercepted by another aircraft
necessary for the safety of navigation of civil aircraft due shall immediately:
regard shall be had by Contracting States to the following
principles when developing regulations and administrative a) follow the instructions given by the intercepting aircraft,
directives: interpreting and responding to visual signals in
accordance with the specifications in Appendix 1;
a) interception of civil aircraft will be undertaken only as
a last resort; b) notify, if possible, the appropriate air traffic services
unit;
b) if undertaken, an interception will be limited to
determining the identity of the aircraft, unless it is c) attempt to establish radiocommunication with the
necessary to return the aircraft to its planned track, direct intercepting aircraft or with the appropriate intercept
it beyond the boundaries of national airspace, guide it control unit, by making a general call on the
away from a prohibited, restricted or danger area or emergency frequency 121.5 MHz, giving the identity
instruct it to effect a landing at a designated aerodrome; of the intercepted aircraft and the nature of the flight;
and if no contact has been established and if
c) practice interception of civil aircraft will not be practicable, repeating this call on the emergency
undertaken; frequency 243 MHz;
d) navigational guidance and related information will be d) if equipped with SSR transponder, select Mode A, Code
given to an intercepted aircraft by radiotelephony, 7700, unless otherwise instructed by the appropriate air
whenever radio contact can be established; and traffic services unit.
14/11/91 30 ANNEX 2
Appendix 2 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
Table 2.1
Phrases for use by INTERCEPTING aircraft Phrases for use by INTERCEPTED aircraft
Phrase Pronunciation1 Meaning Phrase Pronunciation1 Meaning
CALL SIGN KOL SA-IN What is your call sign? CALL SIGN KOL SA-IN My call sign is (call sign)
(call sign)2 (call sign)
FOLLOW FOL-LO Follow me
WILCO VILL-KO Understood
DESCEND DEE-SEND Descend for landing
Will comply
YOU LAND YOU LAAND Land at this aerodrome
CAN NOT KANN NOTT Unable to comply
PROCEED PRO-SEED You may proceed
REPEAT REE-PEET Repeat your instruction
AM LOST AM LOSST Position unknown
MAYDAY MAYDAY I am in distress
HIJACK3 HI-JACK I have been hijacked
LAND LAAND I request to land at
(place name) (place name) (place name)
DESCEND DEE-SEND I require descent
2. 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.
3. Circumstances may not always permit, nor make desirable, the use of the phrase “HIJACK”.
31 14/11/91
APPENDIX 3. TABLES OF CRUISING LEVELS
The cruising levels to be observed when so required by this Annex are as follows:
a) in areas where, on the basis of regional air navigation agreement and in accordance with conditions specified therein, a vertical
separation minimum (VSM) of 300 m (1 000 ft) is applied between FL 290 and FL 410 inclusive:*
TRACK**
From 000 degrees to 179 degrees*** From 180 degrees to 359 degrees***
IFR Flights VFR Flights IFR Flights VFR Flights
Altitude Altitude Altitude Altitude
FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet
–90 – – – 0 – – –
10 300 1 000 – – – 20 600 2 000 – – –
30 900 3 000 35 1 050 3 500 40 1 200 4 000 45 1 350 4 500
50 1 500 5 000 55 1 700 5 500 60 1 850 6 000 65 2 000 6 500
70 2 150 7 000 75 2 300 7 500 80 2 450 8 000 85 2 600 8 500
90 2 750 9 000 95 2 900 9 500 100 3 050 10 000 105 3 200 10 500
110 3 350 11 000 115 3 500 11 500 120 3 650 12 000 125 3 800 12 500
130 3 950 13 000 135 4 100 13 500 140 4 250 14 000 145 4 400 14 500
150 4 550 15 000 155 4 700 15 500 160 4 900 16 000 165 5 050 16 500
170 5 200 17 000 175 5 350 17 500 180 5 500 18 000 185 5 650 18 500
190 5 800 19 000 195 5 950 19 500 200 6 100 20 000 205 6 250 20 500
210 6 400 21 000 215 6 550 21 500 220 6 700 22 000 225 6 850 22 500
230 7 000 23 000 235 7 150 23 500 240 7 300 24 000 245 7 450 24 500
250 7 600 25 000 255 7 750 25 500 260 7 900 26 000 265 8 100 26 500
270 8 250 27 000 275 8 400 27 500 280 8 550 28 000 285 8 700 28 500
290 8 850 29 000 300 9 150 30 000
* Except when, on the basis of regional air navigation agreements, a modified table of cruising levels based on a nominal vertical separation
minimum of 300 m (1 000 ft) is prescribed for use, under specified conditions, by aircraft operating above FL 410 within designated portions
of the airspace.
** Magnetic track, or in polar areas at latitudes higher than 70 degrees and within such extensions to those areas as may be prescribed by the
appropriate ATS authorities, grid tracks as determined by a network of lines parallel to the Greenwich Meridian superimposed on a polar
stereographic chart in which the direction towards the North Pole is employed as the Grid North.
*** Except where, on the basis of regional air navigation agreements, from 090 to 269 degrees and from 270 to 089 degrees is prescribed to
accommodate predominant traffic directions and appropriate transition procedures to be associated therewith are specified.
Note.— Guidance material relating to vertical separation is contained in the Manual on Implementation of a 300 m (1 000 ft)
Vertical Separation Minimum Between FL 290 and FL 410 Inclusive (Doc 9574).
10/11/94 32 ANNEX 2
No. 31
Appendix 3 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
b) in other areas:
TRACK*
From 000 degrees to 179 degrees** From 180 degrees to 359 degrees**
IFR Flights VFR Flights IFR Flights VFR Flights
Altitude Altitude Altitude Altitude
FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet FL Metres Feet
–90 – – – 0 – – –
10 300 1 000 – – – 20 600 2 000 – – –
30 900 3 000 35 1 050 3 500 40 1 200 4 000 45 1 350 4 500
50 1 500 5 000 55 1 700 5 500 60 1 850 6 000 65 2 000 6 500
70 2 150 7 000 75 2 300 7 500 80 2 450 8 000 85 2 600 8 500
90 2 750 9 000 95 2 900 9 500 100 3 050 10 000 105 3 200 10 500
110 3 350 11 000 115 3 500 11 500 120 3 650 12 000 125 3 800 12 500
130 3 950 13 000 135 4 100 13 500 140 4 250 14 000 145 4 400 14 500
150 4 550 15 000 155 4 700 15 500 160 4 900 16 000 165 5 050 16 500
170 5 200 17 000 175 5 350 17 500 180 5 500 18 000 185 5 650 18 500
190 5 800 19 000 195 5 950 19 500 200 6 100 20 000 205 6 250 20 500
210 6 400 21 000 215 6 550 21 500 220 6 700 22 000 225 6 850 22 500
230 7 000 23 000 235 7 150 23 500 240 7 300 24 000 245 7 450 24 500
250 7 600 25 000 255 7 750 25 500 260 7 900 26 000 265 8 100 26 500
270 8 250 27 000 275 8 400 27 500 280 8 550 28 000 285 8 700 28 500
290 8 850 29 000 300 9 150 30 000 310 9 450 31 000 320 9 750 32 000
330 10 050 33 000 340 10 350 34 000 350 10 650 35 000 360 10 950 36 000
370 11 300 37 000 380 11 600 38 000 390 11 900 39 000 400 12 200 40 000
410 12 500 41 000 420 12 800 42 000 430 13 100 43 000 440 13 400 44 000
450 13 700 45 000 460 14 000 46 000 470 14 350 47 000 480 14 650 48 000
490 14 950 49 000 500 15 250 50 000 510 15 550 51 000 520 15 850 52 000
etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. etc.
* Magnetic track, or in polar areas at latitudes higher than 70 degrees and within such extensions to those areas as may be prescribed by the
appropriate ATS authorities, grid tracks as determined by a network of lines parallel to the Greenwich Meridian superimposed on a polar
stereographic chart in which the direction towards the North Pole is employed as the Grid North.
** Except where, on the basis of regional air navigation agreements, from 090 to 269 degrees and from 270 to 089 degrees is prescribed to
accommodate predominant traffic directions and appropriate transition procedures to be associated therewith are specified.
Note.— Guidance material relating to vertical separation is contained in the Manual on Implementation of a 300 m (1 000 ft)
Vertical Separation Minimum Between FL 290 and FL 410 Inclusive (Doc 9574).
32A
33 10/11/94
No. 31
APPENDIX 4. UNMANNED FREE BALLOONS
(Note.— See Chapter 3, 3.1.9 of the Annex)
1. Classification of unmanned free balloons 2.3 The authorization referred to in 2.2 shall be obtained
prior to the launching of the balloon if there is reasonable
Unmanned free balloons shall be classified as: expectation, when planning the operation, that the balloon may
drift into airspace over the territory of another State. Such
a) light: an unmanned free balloon which carries a payload authorization may be obtained for a series of balloon flights or
of one or more packages with a combined mass of less for a particular type of recurring flight, e.g. atmospheric
than 4 kg, unless qualifying as a heavy balloon in research balloon flights.
accordance with c) 2), 3) or 4) below; or
2.4 An unmanned free balloon shall be operated in
b) medium: an unmanned free balloon which carries a accordance with conditions specified by the State of Registry
payload of two or more packages with a combined mass and the State(s) expected to be overflown.
of 4 kg or more, but less than 6 kg, unless qualifying as
a heavy balloon in accordance with c) 2), 3) or 4) below; 2.5 An unmanned free balloon shall not be operated in
or such a manner that impact of the balloon, or any part thereof,
including its payload, with the surface of the earth, creates a
c) heavy: an unmanned free balloon which carries a hazard to persons or property not associated with the
payload which: operation.
1) has a combined mass of 6 kg or more; or 2.6 A heavy unmanned free balloon shall not be operated
over the high seas without prior co-ordination with the
2) includes a package of 3 kg or more; or appropriate ATS authority.
Note 2.— See Figure 4.1. b) the horizontal visibility is less than 8 km.
ANNEX 2 33 10/11/94
4/11/91
No. 31
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 4
14/11/91 34
Appendix 4 Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
b) for polyethylene zero-pressure balloons, at least two a) when it becomes known that weather conditions are less
methods, systems, devices, or combinations thereof, that than those prescribed for the operation;
function independently of each other are employed for
terminating the flight of the balloon envelope; b) if a malfunction or any other reason makes further
operation hazardous to air traffic or to persons or
Note.— Superpressure balloons do not require these property on the surface; or
devices as they quickly rise after payload discharge and burst
without the need for a device or system designed to puncture c) prior to unauthorized entry into the airspace over
the balloon envelope. In this context a superpressure balloon another State’s territory.
is a simple non-extensible envelope capable of withstanding a
differential of pressure, higher inside than out. It is inflated so
that the smaller night-time pressure of the gas still fully
extends the envelope. Such a superpressure balloon will keep 5. Flight notification
essentially constant level until too much gas diffuses out of it.
c) the balloon envelope is equipped with either a radar 5.1 Pre-flight notification
reflective device(s) or radar reflective material that will
present an echo to surface radar operating in the 200 5.1.1 Early notification of the intended flight of an
MHz to 2 700 MHz frequency range, and/or the balloon unmanned free balloon in the medium or heavy category, shall
is equipped with such other devices as will permit be made to the appropriate air traffic services unit not less than
continuous tracking by the operator beyond the range of seven days before the date of the intended flight.
ground-based radar.
5.1.2 Notification of the intended flight shall include such
3.4 A heavy unmanned free balloon shall not be operated of the following information as may be required by the
in an area where ground-based SSR equipment is in use, appropriate air traffic services unit:
unless it is equipped with a secondary surveillance radar
transponder, with altitude reporting capability, which is a) balloon flight identification or project code name;
continuously operating on an assigned code, or which can be
turned on when necessary by the tracking station. b) balloon classification and description;
3.5 An unmanned free balloon that is equipped with a c) SSR code or NDB frequency as applicable;
trailing antenna that requires a force of more than 230 N to
break it at any point, shall not be operated unless the antenna d) operator’s name and telephone number;
has coloured pennants or streamers that are attached at not
more than 15 m intervals. e) launch site;
3.6 A heavy unmanned free balloon shall not be operated f) estimated time of launch (or time of commencement and
below 18 000 m (60 000 ft) pressure-altitude between sunset completion of multiple launches);
and sunrise or such other period between sunset and sunrise
(corrected to the altitude of operation) as may be prescribed by g) number of balloons to be launched and the scheduled
the appropriate ATS authority, unless the balloon and its interval between launches (if multiple launches);
attachments and payload, whether or not they become
separated during the operation, are lighted. h) expected direction of ascent;
3.7 A heavy unmanned free balloon that is equipped with i) cruising level(s) (pressure-altitude);
a suspension device (other than a highly conspicuously
coloured open parachute) more than 15 m long, shall not be j) the estimated elapsed time to pass 18 000 m (60 000 ft)
operated between sunrise and sunset below 18 000 m (60 000 pressure-altitude or to reach cruising level if at or below
ft) pressure-altitude unless the suspension device is coloured in 18 000 m (60 000 ft), together with the estimated
alternate bands of high conspicuity colours or has coloured location;
pennants attached.
Note.— If the operation consists of continuous
launchings, the time to be included is the estimated time
at which the first and the last in the series will reach the
4. Termination appropriate level (e.g. 122136Z-130330Z).
The operator of a heavy unmanned free balloon shall activate k) the estimated date and time of termination of the flight
the appropriate termination devices required by 3.3 a) and b) and the planned location of the impact/recovery area. In
above: the case of balloons carrying out flights of long
35 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Appendix 4
duration, as a result of which the date and time of medium or heavy unmanned free balloon, previously notified
termination of the flight and the location of impact in accordance with 5.1, has been cancelled.
cannot be forecast with accuracy, the term “long
duration” shall be used.
Note.— If there is to be more than one location of 6. Position recording and reports
impact/recovery, each location is to be listed together
with the appropriate estimated time of impact. If there is 6.1 The operator of a heavy unmanned free balloon
to be a series of continuous impacts, the time to be operating at or below 18 000 m (60 000 ft) pressure-altitude
included is the estimated time of the first and the last in shall monitor the flight path of the balloon and forward reports
the series (e.g. 070330Z-072300Z). of the balloon’s position as requested by air traffic services.
Unless air traffic services require reports of the balloon’s
5.1.3 Any changes in the pre-launch information notified position at more frequent intervals, the operator shall record
in accordance with 5.1.2 above shall be forwarded to the air the position every 2 hours.
traffic services unit concerned not less than 6 hours before the
estimated time of launch, or in the case of solar or cosmic 6.2 The operator of a heavy unmanned free balloon
disturbance investigations involving a critical time element, operating above 18 000 m (60 000 ft) pressure-altitude shall
not less than 30 minutes before the estimated time of the monitor the flight progress of the balloon and forward reports
commencement of the operation. of the balloon’s position as requested by air traffic services.
Unless air traffic services require reports of the balloon’s
position at more frequent intervals, the operator shall record
the position every 24 hours.
5.2 Notification of launch
6.3 If a position cannot be recorded in accordance with
Immediately after a medium or heavy unmanned free balloon
6.1 and 6.2, the operator shall immediately notify the
is launched the operator shall notify the appropriate air traffic
appropriate air traffic services unit. This notification shall
services unit of the following:
include the last recorded position. The appropriate air traffic
services unit shall be notified immediately when tracking of
a) balloon flight identification;
the balloon is re-established.
b) launch site;
6.4 One hour before the beginning of planned descent of
a heavy unmanned free balloon, the operator shall forward to
c) actual time of launch;
the appropriate ATS unit the following information regarding
the balloon:
d) estimated time at which 18 000 m (60 000 ft) pressure-
altitude will be passed, or the estimated time at which
a) the current geographical position;
the cruising level will be reached if at or below 18 000 m
(60 000 ft), and the estimated location; and
b) the current level (pressure-altitude);
e) any changes to the information previously notified in
c) the forecast time of penetration of 18 000 m (60 000 ft)
accordance with 5.1.2 g) and h).
pressure-altitude, if applicable;
14/11/91 36
ATTACHMENT A. INTERCEPTION OF CIVIL AIRCRAFT
(Note.— See Chapter 3, 3.8 of the Annex and associated Note)
Note.— In the interest of completeness, the substance of the b) areas prohibited to all civil flights and areas in which
provisions in Appendix 2 to the Annex is incorporated in this civil flight is not permitted without special authorization
Attachment. by the State be clearly promulgated in aeronautical
information publications (AIP) in accordance with the
provisions of Annex 15, together with the risk, if any, of
1. In accordance with Article 3 d) of the Convention on interception in the event of penetration of such areas.
International Civil Aviation the Contracting States of ICAO When delineating such areas in close proximity to
“undertake, when issuing regulations for their state aircraft, promulgated ATS routes, or other frequently used
that they will have due regard for the safety of navigation of tracks, States should take into account the availability
civil aircraft”. As interceptions of civil aircraft are, in all and over-all systems accuracy of the navigation systems
cases, potentially hazardous, the Council of ICAO has to be used by civil aircraft and their ability to remain
formulated the following special recommendations which clear of the delineated areas;
Contracting States are urged to implement through appro-
priate regulatory and administrative action. The uniform c) the establishment of additional navigation aids be
application by all concerned is considered essential in the considered where necessary to ensure that civil aircraft
interest of safety of civil aircraft and their occupants. For this are able safely to circumnavigate prohibited or, as
reason the Council of ICAO invites Contracting States to required, restricted areas.
notify ICAO of any differences which may exist between
their national regulations or practices and the special 2.3 To eliminate or reduce the hazards inherent in
recommendations hereunder. interceptions undertaken as a last resort, all possible efforts
should be made to ensure co-ordinated actions by the pilots
and ground units concerned. To this end, it is essential that
Contracting States take steps to ensure that:
ANNEX 2 37 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Attachment A
intercepted aircraft, air-to-air visual signals, radiocom- level, until no closer than absolutely necessary to obtain the
munication with intercepted aircraft, and the need to information needed. The element leader, or the single
refrain from resorting to the use of weapons; intercepting aircraft, should use caution to avoid startling the
flight crew or the passengers of the intercepted aircraft,
Note.— See paragraphs 3 to 8. keeping constantly in mind the fact that manoeuvres
considered normal to an intercepting aircraft may be
f) intercept control units and intercepting aircraft be considered hazardous to passengers and crews of civil aircraft.
provided with radiotelephony equipment compatible Any other participating aircraft should continue to stay well
with the technical specifications of Annex 10, Volume I clear of the intercepted aircraft. Upon completion of
so as to enable them to communicate with intercepted identification, the intercepting aircraft should withdraw from
aircraft on the emergency frequency 121.5 MHz; the vicinity of the intercepted aircraft as outlined in Phase III.
14/11/91 38
Attachment A Annex 2 — Rules of the Air
4.2 When navigational guidance is given to an intercepted c) attempt to establish radiocommunication with the
aircraft, care must be taken that the aircraft is not led into intercepting aircraft or with the appropriate intercept
conditions where the visibility may be reduced below that control unit, by making a general call on the emergency
required to maintain flight in visual meteorological conditions frequency 121.5 MHz, giving the identity of the
and that the manoeuvres demanded of the intercepted aircraft intercepted aircraft and the nature of the flight; and if no
do not add to already existing hazards in the event that the contact has been established and if practicable, repeating
operating efficiency of the aircraft is impaired. this call on the emergency frequency 243 MHz;
4.3 In the exceptional case where an intercepted civil d) if equipped with SSR transponder, select Mode A, Code
aircraft is required to land in the territory overflown, care must 7700, unless otherwise instructed by the appropriate air
also be taken that: traffic services unit.
a) the designated aerodrome is suitable for the safe landing “2.2 If any instructions received by radio from any
of the aircraft type concerned, especially if the sources conflict with those given by the intercepting aircraft
aerodrome is not normally used for civil air transport by visual signals, the intercepted aircraft shall request
operations; immediate clarification while continuing to comply with the
visual instructions given by the intercepting aircraft.
b) the surrounding terrain is suitable for circling, approach
and missed approach manoeuvres; “2.3 If any instructions received by radio from any
sources conflict with those given by the intercepting aircraft
c) the intercepted aircraft has sufficient fuel remaining to by radio, the intercepted aircraft shall request immediate
reach the aerodrome; clarification while continuing to comply with the radio
instructions given by the intercepting aircraft.”
d) if the intercepted aircraft is a civil transport aircraft, the
designated aerodrome has a runway with a length
equivalent to at least 2 500 m at mean sea level and a
bearing strength sufficient to support the aircraft; and
6. Air-to-air visual signals
e) whenever possible, the designated aerodrome is one that
is described in detail in the relevant aeronautical The visual signals to be used by intercepting and intercepted
information publication. aircraft are those set forth in Appendix 1 to this Annex. It is
essential that intercepting and intercepted aircraft adhere
4.4 When requiring a civil aircraft to land at an unfamiliar strictly to those signals and interpret correctly the signals
aerodrome, it is essential that sufficient time be allowed it to given by the other aircraft, and that the intercepting aircraft
prepare for a landing, bearing in mind that only the pilot-in- pay particular attention to any signals given by the intercepted
command of the civil aircraft can judge the safety of the aircraft to indicate that it is in a state of distress or urgency.
landing operation in relation to runway length and aircraft
mass at the time.
39 14/11/91
Annex 2 — Rules of the Air Attachment A
7.2 If radio contact is established during interception but The use of tracer bullets to attract attention is hazardous, and
communication in a common language is not possible, it is expected that measures will be taken to avoid their use so
attempts must be made to convey instructions, that the lives of persons on board and the safety of aircraft will
acknowledgement of instructions and essential information by not be endangered.
using the phrases and pronunciations in Table A-1 and
transmitting each phrase twice.
Note.— In the unanimous adoption by the 25th Session It is essential that close co-ordination be maintained between
(Extraordinary) of the ICAO Assembly on 10 May 1984 of an intercept control unit and the appropriate air traffic services
Article 3 bis to the Convention on International Civil Aviation, unit during all phases of an interception of an aircraft which is,
the Contracting States have recognized that “every State must or might be, a civil aircraft, in order that the air traffic services
refrain from resorting to the use of weapons against civil unit is kept fully informed of the developments and of the
aircraft in flight.” action required of the intercepted aircraft.
Table A-1
Phrases for use by INTERCEPTING aircraft Phrases for use by INTERCEPTED aircraft
Phrase Pronunciation1 Meaning Phrase Pronunciation1 Meaning
CALL SIGN KOL SA-IN What is your call sign? CALL SIGN KOL SA-IN My call sign is (call sign)
(call sign)2 (call sign)
FOLLOW FOL-LO Follow me
WILCO VILL-KO Understood
DESCEND DEE-SEND Descend for landing
Will comply
YOU LAND YOU LAAND Land at this aerodrome
CAN NOT KANN NOTT Unable to comply
PROCEED PRO-SEED You may proceed
REPEAT REE-PEET Repeat your instruction
AM LOST AM LOSST Position unknown
MAYDAY MAYDAY I am in distress
HIJACK3 HI-JACK I have been hijacked
LAND LAAND I request to land at
(place name) (place name) (place name)
DESCEND DEE-SEND I require descent
1. In the second column, syllables to be emphasized are underlined.
2. 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.
3. Circumstances may not always permit, nor make desirable, the use of the phrase “HIJACK”.
14/11/91 40
ATTACHMENT B. UNLAWFUL INTERFERENCE
— END —
ANNEX 2 41 14/11/91