Proposed updates to the Sydney VTC near Camden and The Oaks

Overview

We are seeking feedback on a proposal to update information for The Oaks aerodrome on the Sydney visual terminal chart (VTC), along with associated changes near Camden Airport.  

The changes aim to reduce the likelihood of aircraft operating close to each other while on different frequencies in the vicinity of the 2 airports.

It follows consultation earlier this year on moving the existing visual approach point (VAP) to an area over Hayters Sawmill. Through our consultation we received feedback that the proposed location was unsuitable due to its proximity to the Western Sydney International Airport control zone boundary. This feedback has been considered with the development of this new proposal.

Published overfly height for The Oaks aerodrome

We are seeking feedback on increasing the published overfly height shown in the information box for The Oaks from 2,500 ft to 3,000 ft. The proposed change is intended to further increase vertical separation between aircraft transiting the area and aircraft operating in The Oaks circuit, reducing the likelihood of conflicting traffic operating on different frequencies.

The information box on the VTC would be updated to the following:

Earlier this year we sought feedback on moving the VAP to an area over Hayters Sawmill. Through our consultation we received feedback that the proposed location was unsuitable due to its proximity to the Western Sydney International Airport control zone boundary.

We are proposing a new visual reference point identified as the 'Chicken Sheds', located in Orangeville, approximately 3 nautical miles northwest of The Oaks. The 'Chicken Sheds' are 4 large, white-roofed sheds arranged in a distinctive herringbone pattern, making it easy to identify from the air.

Above image (9 July Sydney VTC, edited): Shows the proposed new location of a VAP and VFR route into Camden Airport (thick purple line) and highlights the information box that will be updated.

Above image: An aerial view of the 'Chicken Sheds' in Orangeville.

Background

When overflying The Oaks aerodrome circuit, pilots will typically:

• transit THK when approaching the Camden Airport control
• contact Camden tower for clearance at 2,500 ft above mean sea level (AMSL).

While the Sydney VTC recommends that aircraft operate no lower than 2,500 ft AMSL, aircraft may operate as low as 1,900 ft AMSL at THK which is The Oaks circuit altitude. Aircraft flying within The Oaks circuit use a different frequency than those aircraft approaching Camden tower, generating an airspace risk within the area.

A similar risk exists when pilots conduct a mid-field crosswind circuit entry from the west into The Oaks aerodrome. Aircraft could be approaching between 1,900 ft and 2,400 ft AMSL, creating potential conflict with aircraft inbound to Camden Airport via THK, particularly as they are likely to be operating on different frequencies.

The proposed changes seek to address this risk by redirecting aircraft approaching Camden Airport away from aircraft operating at The Oaks aerodrome.

Why your views matter

This consultation provides a platform for airspace users to provide feedback to increase safety and efficiency. 

Completing the survey

Please submit your comments using the survey link on this page.

If you would like to provide further feedback, please email OAR@casa.gov.au. Feedback submitted by email will be considered but cannot be published publicly. 

Further information about airspace regulation and the airspace change process is available on the CASA website.

What happens next

Once the consultation has closed, we will:

• review all comments received
• make responses publicly available on the consultation hub (unless you request that your submission remain confidential)
• publish a summary of the feedback received and outline next steps.

Information about how we consult and how to make a confidential submission is available on the CASA website. To be notified of any future consultations, you can subscribe to our consultation and rulemaking mailing list.