Readback: January 2016

IFR reader feedback from January's issue. Covers ICAO flight plans, Class D airspace handoffs, TSO requirements, and runway approach authorization.

Editorial Staff

Friday, January 08, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

The implementation of ICAO Flight Plans for General Aviation (GA) remains complex and in flux, with confusion over equipment codes and inconsistencies between FAA's domestic interpretation and ICAO's international standards.
Obtaining authorization for advanced RNP approaches (e.g., with RF legs) is practically impossible for most GA operators, despite equipment capabilities, due to stringent requirements for additional aircraft systems and approved training programs.
Equipment certification (TSO) requirements vary significantly based on aircraft type (certified vs. experimental) and specific instruments, leading to misunderstandings about what equipment needs TSO approval.
Effective communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC) is crucial for smooth airspace transitions, as pilots are responsible for contacting controlling agencies before entering their airspace, regardless of assumed handoffs.

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ICAO Flight Plan Chaos

Jordan Miller’s September 2015 article about ICAO Flight Plans was timely and necessary, but needs updating. First would be a statement that implementation for GA is still in a state of flux. There’s now at least a six-month delay to iron out some of the many kinks.

I found no mention of DOT/FAA Order JO7110.10X. That should be our primary reference because it has the FAA’s understanding of what everything means.