|
|
|
Planning the Route As in all things flying, the secret is in the preparation. Any method of planning is acceptable, but computer aided planning is excellent in the first instance, although nothing beats working out the drift etc from first principles. In my experience computer planning is ideal for trading off routes but manual planning is best before departure.
Above: planning using Navbox Proplan Reporting Points Whichever method is used the route needs 3 essential points, for which Air Traffic will require an estimated time: 1. The point at which you intend crossing the English Coast known as "Coasting Out". 2. The point at which you will cross the FIR boundary. This is often called "mid channel" especially when crossing from Dover to Calais, although it is not in the middle. 3. The point at which you will cross the French coast known at "coasting in". The points for Coasting Out and Coasting In are relatively easy, and can be a town, a radio beacon or a well known feature such as Beachy Head. Mid Channel The FIR boundary (Mid Channel) is shown clearly on the maps with the Flight Information Region boundaries and designations shown quite clearly. These are needed when filling in the flight plan. You must file a flight plan every time you cross an FIR boundary.
Above : Depiction of the FIR boundary on the UK quarter mil map.
Above; Table of FIR designators The point for Mid Channel is difficult to identify since there are no distinguishing features! Some Intersections are shown on the quarter mil UK maps which can be programmed into the GPS. Alternatively The low level airways map, computer navigation program or GPS data base will come to the rescue.
The most useful intersections are:
Above: All mid channel intersections look the same (Left: ORTAC, Right: GARMI), you will need a GPS, Radio beacon fix or good dead reckoning to be sure. Beware when Route Planning It is tempting to use the so called VFR route between Southampton and Cherbourg. This crosses a danger zone (D036) and is often active with military traffic. If you are not confident to fly a diversion over the sea it is better to plan to fly around it.
|
