active 2024-11 -28- [Enroute] Scottish - Availability of (U)P18 NATEB-ADN

[VATSIM UK Operations]

Effective 28 November 2024

Summary

Earlier this year (AIRAC 2407 - 11 Jul 2024), the availability of the P18 ATS route north of Newcastle between NATEB and ADN, along with the associated controlled airspace, was amended to become H24.

Therefore, the next vMATS update will reflect this change and clarify that only when Swanwick Mil (vRAF) reserves the airspace for use will it be simulated as reverting to Class G, requiring ScAC to provide UK FIS.

When the P18 is unavailable for use, traffic may be re-routed via GRICE/P600.

Note: TopSky auto airspace has been updated in the 2024/12 controller pack release.

 

vMATS Procedure (excerpt)

ScAC 3.2.1 ScAC South - Route Structure
ScAC 3.2.1.2 (U)P18

[NB: Old procedure not shown for clarity]

The P18 ATS route north of NATEB (and UP18 between NATEB and ALASO) is established as a CDR for traffic from/to Aberdeen only available H24. Unavailability of the route in real life is specified by NOTAM when required for MOD access or by activation of a flight planning buffer zone, EGD514Z.

For VATSIM purposes, and because of a lack of mandatory flight plan validation, Swanwick Mil (vRAF) shall notify ScAC sectors when the P18 is explicitly unavailable, and whether civil aircraft are required to be re-routed. Only when Swanwick Mil reserves the airspace for use will it revert to Class G and ScAC shall therefore provide UK FIS.

When the P18 is unavailable, traffic may be re-routed via GRICE and the P600.
 

Documentation Status

The Scottish FIR (vMATS) will be updated to coincide with this change.