Proposed change to Mackay Class D CTA Step to the West

Airservices are proposing a new Class D CTA step with a lower limit (LL) of 1500ft between 6‐11 DME to the west of Mackay. Due to surveillance approach being introduced at Mackay, ATC require additional airspace to ensure CTA containment of high‐performance aircraft departing via an initial westerly heading.

The issue

• The consultation will be open until 19 May 2022.
• The introduction of surveillance approach services in Mackay require changes to ATC procedures and airspace.
• Current airspace design provides insufficient airspace to facilitate CTA containment of some departures with an initial westerly heading.
• The proposed Class D LL 1500ft step should best facilitate VFR aircraft, without impacting climb gradients of radar departures.

Relevant documentation