Airservices Australia RSS

CEO to leave Airservices

Thu, 17 May 2012 16:41:00 +1000

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Airservices Australia the national air traffic provider has announced that its long serving Chief Executive Officer Mr Greg Russell has tendered his resignation.

The Chairman of Airservices Mr David Forsyth said that “Mr Russell has been CEO for almost seven years and during this time he has led an extensive transformation of the organisation”.

“This includes the rebuilding the Airservices asset base with the replacement of radars, communication systems, control towers and fire stations throughout Australia; the implementation of new satellite based surveillance technology; increased emphasis on training and workforce development; and the commencement of an acquisition process with the Department of Defence for a new jointly operated air traffic system for Australia”.

“Mr Russell has made a major contribution to both Airservices and to aviation in Australia and I wish him well in the next chapter of his career.

“Late last year we began a period of leadership transition at Airservices with a number of planned Board retirements. The organisation is well advanced in the process of selecting a new CEO.

“In the interim, the Board has appointed Mr Andrew Clark, Airservices Chief Financial Officer as Acting CEO.”

Ends

Airservices commissions new fire vehicles at Sydney Airport

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:16:00 +1000

Airservices commissions new fire vehicles at Sydney Airport

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:15:00 +1000

Airservices commissions new fire vehicles at Sydney Airport

Wed, 16 May 2012 13:15:00 +1000

Airservices commissions new fire vehicles at Sydney Airport

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:48:00 +1000

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Sydney ARFF Mk8 commissioning - No audio

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:48:00 +1000

Airservices Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting commissioned four Rosenbauer Panther Mk8 ultra-large fire vehicles at its Sydney Airport fire station on 16 May 2012. No audio.

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:48:00 +1000

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Airservices commissions new fire vehicles at Sydney Airport

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:48:00 +1000

This release contains: 6 Photos, 1 Related Document, 1 Video

Today the Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese, commissioned four high visibility Mk8 (pronounced Mark 8) fire rescue vehicles for its aviation rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) operation at Sydney Airport, boosting aviation safety for the 36 million passengers who use the country’s busiest airport every year.

The Austrian-built Rosenbauer Mk8 ultra-large fire vehicles, valued at over $1 million each, are part of a $124 million investment by Airservices in the modernisation of fire and rescue services at the nation’s busiest airports through upgrading and replacing fire stations, equipment and vehicles.

The Mk8s replace fire vehicles at Sydney that are up to 20 years old. As the largest fire fighting vehicle in Australia, the Mk8 weighs 30 tonnes when fully loaded with 10,000 litres of water and foam. Able to accelerate to 80 kilometres in under 30 seconds, the Mk8 enables fire fighters to respond to any incident at the airport within three minutes.

Equipped with a roof and front bumper monitors, the Mk8s can empty their tank in approximately two minutes, with the roof monitor capable of shooting water over 80 metres in distance.

Additionally, Airservices recently completed an upgrade of the fire station’s Fire Control Centre which involved replacing analogue communication systems with a standardised modern digital system. The upgrade incorporated the very latest technology, integrating communications and incident management resources.

Airservices provides aviation rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) services at 21 of Australia’s busiest airports. Over 740 highly trained and experienced fire fighting and technical personnel operate 113 high performance fire vehicles, specialised difficult terrain vehicles and specialised water rescue boats.   On average, Airservices fire fighters at Sydney respond to in excess of 2000 call outs each year.

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Wed, 16 May 2012 10:48:00 +1000

Mk8s arrive in Sydney

Alliance Airlines paves the way for early ADS-B fitment

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:30:00 +1000

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Alliance Airlines has fitted automatic dependant surveillance broadcast (ADS-B) technology to four of its Fokker 100 aircraft operating in Western Australia, paving the way for the forward fitment to the remainder of its fleet.

ADS-B is a satellite-based traffic surveillance technology that enables aircraft to be accurately tracked by air traffic controllers and other pilots without the need for conventional radar.

Airservices Australia, the country's air navigation services provider, continues to urge airlines and operators to fit their aircraft with ADS-B sooner rather than later, noting those who have are already seeing the benefits.

“Like many operators, we were suffering from the heavy congestion in areas of Western Australian airspace and we saw ADS-B as a solution,” said Alliance Airline's Managing Director, Scott McMillan.

“It’s been very quick to see the savings from ADS-B, not only from a cost point of view but it also has meant an increase in safety and better service to our customers. I expect our remaining Fokker 100s will all be fitted by the end of this year – a year ahead of the mandate.”

While the mandated deadline of 12 December 2013 approaches, for the fitment of ADS-B for flight in Australian airspace at and above 29,000 feet (FL290), airlines and operators should now be taking note of other key fitment dates.

Airservices Senior Engineering Specialist and ADS-B Program Manager, Greg Dunstone, said “With a year and a half to go for the FL290 requirement, 279 of 617 major Australian airliner aircraft, about 45 per cent, have already been fitted with ADS-B Out capability. We are already seeing 74 per cent of all international flights flying in our flight information region getting the ADS-B service.”

Beyond 2013 the next key mandates for the transition to ADS-B are expected to include:
• February 2014 – ADS-B Out capability in all new IFR aircraft registrations in Australia required. Additionally, most new aircraft and new transponder installations to use Mode S transponders with ADS-B capability
• February 2016 – all IFR aircraft operating within 500nm to the north and east of Perth to be fitted with ADS-B Out
• February 2017 – all Australian registered IFR aircraft flying in Australia’s airspace required to use ADS-B.

Further information on ADS-B and the mandates can be found on our website at www.airservicesaustralia.com/projects/ads-b

For media inquiries, contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Airservices supports women’s flying dreams through flight scholarships

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:40:00 +1000

This release contains: 1 Photo, 1 Related Document

The dream of a career in aviation is closer for four women thanks to financial support from Airservices Australia, the national air traffic services provider.

The four pilots have won flight training scholarships offered in conjunction with the Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA). The winners were announced at the AWPA Annual General Meeting in Bunbury WA on Saturday, 21 April.

Each winner receives $6,000 to subsidise the cost of obtaining a private or commercial pilot’s licence. An additional $2,000 is awarded to the women as bonus payments on achieving milestones.

Airservices spokesman Rob Walker said the scholarships were designed to support the sustainability of the general aviation community and to promote careers in aviation.

“We are pleased to support AWPA and its goals for women pilots in the future of Australia aviation. Airservices congratulates all the winners, and encourages them to pursue their commercial pilot’s license,” Mr Walker said.

“One of last year’s winners has recently accepted her first flying position in the industry after successfully achieving a commercial pilot license, which demonstrates how valuable these scholarships are in assisting these women pursue their flying dreams.”

Recipients of the 2012 AWPA and Airservices Flight Training Scholarships are:

Danielle Labinsky, 25, Toowoomba, QLD. Flight training at the Darling Downs Aero Club and a volunteer for Mission Aviation Fellowship
Jessamyn Cull, 26, Carmel, WA. Flight training at the Royal Aero Club of Western Australia, Jandakot. Works with Qantas ground services, Perth
Alice Klingberg, 20, Frewville, SA. Flight training at Forsyth Aviation, Parafield. Completed Advanced Diploma of Aviation, TAFE SA in 2011
Tammy Augostin, 40, North Haven, SA. Flight training at Forsyth Aviation, Parafield and active airport volunteer who played a major role in organising the recent Parafield Airshow.

Airservices also sponsors two Private Pilots’ License (PPL) Charts and Documents Awards ($550 including GST) of the geographically relevant charts and documents required by a student pilot for the navigation phase of their PPL training. The winners are: Kara Robinson, Manly West, QLD and Jasmine Morris, Healesville, VIC.

This year’s recipients of the flight training scholarships were chosen from a field of applicants who had demonstrated an interest in flying and were supported by their flying instructors. Applicants must be a member of AWPA, at least 18 years of age and have commenced flight training.

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

AWPA Award Presentation 2012

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:32:00 +1000

AWPA Award Presentation 2012

Arrival of the Nancy-Bird Walton

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 15:00:00 +1000

Qantas A380 VH-OQA 'Nancy-Bird Walton' arrived back in Australia after an 11-month repair in Singapore. With audio.

Airservices welcomes Nancy-Bird Walton home to Sydney

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:05:00 +1000

This release contains: 4 Photos, 2 Related Documents, 1 Video

Airservices air traffic controllers and aviation fire fighters have welcomed the return of Qantas’ flagship A380, the Nancy-Bird Walton, to Sydney today.

Call-signed ‘QF32’ (Qantas flight 32), the A380 touched down on Sydney’s runway 16R at about 9:20am, having flown in from Singapore after passing flight testing just days earlier.

The occasion was marked with a special welcome radio transmission by the tower controller.

“Qantas 32, on behalf of Airservices at Sydney tower, welcome home Nancy-Bird Walton.” the controller said.

On landing, the aircraft was also treated to a traditional ‘water arch salute’ by Airservices aviation fire fighters.

Airservices Chief Fire Officer, Peter Smith, said a water arch salute involved two ultra-large Mk8 fire vehicles throwing water over a distance of more than 80 metres as the aircraft passed through the arch.

“The water salute is used for ceremonial purposes to mark a significant event,” Mr Smith said.

“It is a significant achievement for an aircraft to return to service after such an incident and our aviation fire fighters were pleased to be there to help Qantas mark the event.”

The Nancy-Bird Walton was grounded on 4 November 2010 when an uncontained engine failure struck shortly after take-off from Singapore, resulting in extensive damage.

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on
(02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Welcoming home Nancy-Bird Walton

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:02:00 +1000

Welcoming home Nancy-Bird Walton

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +1000

Welcoming home Nancy-Bird Walton

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +1000

Welcoming home Nancy-Bird Walton

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:00:00 +1000

Welcoming home Nancy-Bird Walton

Scholarship winners take to skies with Airservices support

Fri, 20 Apr 2012 13:00:00 +1000

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Four aviation enthusiasts will take to the skies thanks to the financial support of Airservices Australia, the nation’s air navigation service provider.

The pilots-to-be were awarded Airservices Learn to Fly Scholarships in conjunction with the Royal Federation of Aero Clubs of Australia (RFACA) at the club’s annual flying training conference earlier this week.

The scholarships are part of a three-year sponsorship agreement worth almost $100,000 aimed at identifying the next generation of Australian pilots.

Each winner receives $7700 to subsidise the cost of obtaining a Private or Commercial Pilot’s Licence.

In presenting the awards, Airservices Executive General Manager Air Traffic Control, Jason Harfield, said the scholarships were part of the organisation’s commitment to developing and fostering the Australian aviation industry.

“We are very pleased to support RFACA and contribute to the future of the industry as we encourage people to pursue their dreams and a future in aviation,” Mr Harfield said.

“Airservices congratulates all the winners of these scholarships, and encourages them to get started on their training and obtaining their pilot’s licence, and for the two experienced pilots, to further their aviation careers,” he said.

Two of the recipients were awarded the scholarship to allow them to commence their flying training, with the other two recipients will work towards either a commercial pilot license or obtaining an instructor rating.

Recipients of 2011 Airservices Learn to Fly Scholarships are:

Tyler Parker, Manning River Aero Club, New South Wales (general flying progress test)
Joseph McInerney, Darling Downs Aero Club, Queensland (general flying progress test)
Jeremy Clarke, Royal Victorian Aero Club, Victoria (commercial pilot license)
Josh McKeon, Darling Downs Aero Club (instructor rating)

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Aviation fire rescue training hots up at Sydney Airport

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +1000

This release contains: 2 Photos, 1 Related Document

Airservices Australia will be conducting aviation rescue and fire fighting training at Sydney Airport from today until 18 May.

The training will see a group of 12 experienced fire fighters put through a series of aviation training scenarios during which they will build on their highly specialised skills in aviation fire fighting and rescue procedures.

At the completion of the training they will be awarded a Certificate IV in Firefighting Supervision.

The group will use practical training aids available at Airservices Sydney fire station including a mock-up aircraft fuselage and smoke house.

Airservices spokesman Rob Walker said the training would involve the creation of large amounts of flame and smoke as the recruits practise their fire fighting skills.

“Airport users and the public should not be alarmed by smoke, fire or an unusually high number of emergency vehicle movements at the airport during this time,” Mr Walker said.

“Our fire fighters are there to protect the public in the unlikely event things go wrong at major airports. They respond to a host of different incidents every day ranging from medical emergencies to building fire alarms and aircraft emergencies.”

Airservices has one of the largest and most professional aviation rescue and fire fighting services in the world, with more than 740 fire fighters.

On average, Airservices fire fighters are called out around 150 times a week across Australia’s regional, domestic and international airports. In the past two years they have saved more than 20 lives.

The service also operates the largest fire fighting vehicles in Australia – high visibility Mk8 ultra-large fire vehicles which can discharge almost 9000 litres of water within two minutes of arrival at an emergency.

Training exercises will take place between 8:30am and 4pm most days within the the fire training ground located near Gate 16.

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

Young adults awarded $2,500 flying scholarships

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 11:52:00 +1000

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Ten young adults are a step closer to a career in aviation thanks to financial support from Airservices Australia, the national air traffic control service provider.

The group, aged between 15 and 17, were chosen from a field of about 50 applicants who had demonstrated an aptitude for flying and a commitment to aviation.

The Airservices and Recreation Aviation Australia (RA-Aus) Giving Young Flyers Training Support (GYFTS) scholarships, valued at $2,500 each, will offer training opportunities for young people and assist them to complete their flying training at minimal cost.

Airservices spokesperson Rob Walker said that the scholarships offer a chance to develop basic aviation knowledge which could lead to a later career in military, commercial, general or recreational aviation.

“We are pleased to support RA-Aus and its contribution to developing responsible and safe flying attitudes within the recreational pilot community, particularly as they help young people to fly and consider a future career in our industry,” Mr Walker said.

“We hope these scholarships will encourage young flyers to become active, long-term members of the recreational aviation community and beyond,” Mr Walker said.

Recipients of the 2012 RA-Aus and Airservices GYFTS scholarships are:

• Anastasia Millward, 16, George Town, Tasmania
• Jett Barnes, 15, Wurtulla, Queensland
• Cuan James, 16, Flagstaff Hill, South Australia
• Troy Finocchiaro, 16, Bayview, Northern Territory
• Henri Maxwell, 17, Avonside, New South Wales
• Jacob Fawkner, 17, Traralgon, Victoria
• Tristan Dinning, 16, Merino, Victoria
• Belinda Blades, 15, Gymea Bay, New South Wales
• Joshua Coate, 16, St Georges Basin, New South Wales
• Riley Schier, 15, Kempsey, New South Wals

Airservices funds 10 RA-Aus scholarships per year as part of its wider contribution to developing and fostering the Australian aviation industry. The scholarships are available to both male and female students who are 15-20 years old.

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

New Cairns Terminal Area Radar

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:27:00 +1100

New Cairns Terminal Area Radar

New terminal area radar commissioned in Cairns

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 10:15:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Photo, 1 Related Document

Airservices has commissioned a new terminal area radar near Cairns Airport which will enhance surveillance of aircraft in the airspace around the airport.

The $5.5 million upgrade is part of a $90 million modernisation program being carried out by Airservices to ensure the safe and efficient movement of air traffic in Australian airspace.

The radar replaces radar equipment installed in 1992 and includes an improved solid state primary radar with a 60nm (111km) range and a Mode S (select) capable Monopulse Secondary Surveillance Radar with a range of up to 256nm (474km).

Airservices Acting General Manager Technology and Asset Services, Dan Galazowski, said that the upgrade to the Redden Creek radar will ensure that the equipment continues to function safely and efficiently.

“The new radar will deliver significant benefits to Airservices and the aviation industry, including higher rates of operational availability, improved data and less frequent maintenance requirements,” Mr Galazowski said.

Work to replace the radar at Redden Creek, Cairns, began with the commissioning of a temporary radar at Machans Beach in October 2011.

“By using a temporary radar facility during these critical works, we were able to maintain high safety levels for aircraft while replacing key surveillance technology,” Mr Galazowski said.

The commissioning of the terminal area radar follows stringent flight inspection testing to ensure that it is operating accurately.

The new permanent radar is housed inside a dome to protect it from the high winds and other weather events that occur around Cairns particularly during the rainy season. The dome allows the radar to continue functioning in high winds, and will also lengthen the life expectancy of the equipment.

With the completion of the five month radar upgrade, the buildings and equipment used at the temporary radar site at Machans Beach will be removed from the site.

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Airservices makes skies safe for pilots

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 12:42:00 +1100

This release contains: 4 Photos, 1 Related Document

Don’t be alarmed if you see a low-flying aircraft in your area this month - chances are it’s Airservices Flight Inspection Service (FIS) checking the navigational aids used by pilots daily.

Airservices, the provider of air traffic management services throughout Australia, is responsible for conducting regular flight calibration inspections on approximately 500 navigational aids nationwide.

The inspections will see a specially-equipped twin-engine Beechcraft King Air make several approaches to an airfield to ensure the navigational equipment is operating accurately.

Using three-dimensional laser measuring equipment and GPS technology, information from the navigational aid is relayed to the aircraft and interpreted by specialist aircrew. The data is then analysed by Airservices maintenance engineers to ensure each aid is operating accurately.

The navigational equipment is crucial to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft at major and regional airports, aerodromes and airstrips.

Based in Brisbane, the service will carry out inspections on navigational equipment including ground based augmentation systems, distance measuring equipment, non-directional beacons and instrument landing systems at:

NSW –Holbrook, Narrandera and Gunnedah (14 March)
Vic –Corryong, Warrnambool, Portland and Plenty (6 March), Shepparton (7 March), Essendon (13 March)
ACT – Canberra (8-10 March)
SA – Mt Gambier (6 March)
NT – Alice Springs (8 March)
Qld – Cunnamulla (9 March).

Note: There may be changes to the schedule if poor weather or other factors prevent the safety checks from going ahead.

For media enquiries call Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

Images of the aircraft and its equipment are available for download at http://newsroom.airservicesaustralia.com (registration required).

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Hot fire training ground

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 12:29:00 +1100

Hot fire training ground

Work begins on $11.5 million fire training ground at Melbourne Airport

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 10:23:00 +1100

This release contains: 4 Photos, 1 Related Document, 1 Video

Airservices today marked the start of construction for a new aviation fire fighting training ground at Melbourne Airport.

The $11.5 million ‘hot fire’ training facility will be the only one of its kind in the southern hemisphere.

It will provide state-of-the-art training for aviation fire fighters nationally with more than 250 fire fighters expected to pass through the facility each year.

The centrepiece of the 15,000m2 training ground will be a full sized mock-up aircraft fuselage, replicating sections from Airbus A380, Boeing 767 and DC10 aircraft. The 56m long, 10m high and 29m wide mock-up will be used to simulate real-world aviation fire fighting and rescue scenarios.

Airservices General Manager Aviation Rescue and Fire Fighting, Andrew Rushbrook, said that the new facility would allow the organisation to centralise the delivery of high-quality, realistic training to recruits and experienced fire fighters undertaking required ongoing and advanced training.

“The new facility also allows us to meet our environmental commitments while undertaking this critical training. We will capture and treat all foam and water used in training,” Mr Rushbrook said.

Badge Constructions will complete civil works on the site while the aircraft simulator and associated fire control and safety systems will be installed by Dräger Safety Pacific. The facility will be built over the next 12 months and is expected to be in service by early 2013.

“This project demonstrates the strong co-operation between Airservices and Melbourne Airport, and reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in infrastructure around the airport,” Mr Rushbrook said.

The facility will be constructed next to the compound housing Airservices existing air traffic services centre, a new technical services centre under construction, and a $17 million air traffic control tower which will be completed by the end of the year.

Airservices has one of the largest, most highly trained, professional aviation fire and rescue services in the world with 700 operational fire fighters and around 35 recruit trainees each year.

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Images and vision of Airservices fire fighters are available for download at http://newsroom.airservicesaustralia.com (registration required).

Hot fire training ground

Fri, 24 Feb 2012 09:53:00 +1100

Hot fire training ground

Aviation rescue hot fire training

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:41:00 +1100

Aviation rescue hot fire training

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:24:00 +1100

Aviation rescue hot fire training

Letter to the Gold Coast Bulletin - Instrument Landing System

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 17:10:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Dear Editor,

Your story and editorial today (Playing with lives) on progress for an Instrument Landing System at Gold Coast Airport is sensationalist, innacurate and unhelpful.

The Gold Coast airport is operating safely, and irresponsible speculation on this point risks damaging confidence in the airport and the local economy which relies on the business and tourism benefits it delivers.

We are working closely with the airport and the aviation industry to progress the installation of an ILS at the airport and have allocated sufficient funds for this project to proceed as soon as possible.

As each ILS installation is site-specific, detailed engineering, technical and airspace design work is required to ensure the installed equipment delivers the best possible outcome for the airport, aircraft operators and the community.

Community consultation will also be required beforehand if the installation of an ILS results in flight path changes.

Airservices is already investing heavily at Gold Coast and other regional airports around the country.

We are close to completing a $2.3m refurbishment of the Gold Coast air traffic control tower and our aviation fire station at the airport has also undergone an upgrade. It is equipped with brand new Mk8s ultra-large fire vehicles and a new digital Fire Control Centre.

Your readers can be assured that Airservices is fully committed to continual upgrading of its facilities at the airport in line with the growth in passenger traffic being experienced.

Yours Sincerely

Greg Russell
Chief Executive Officer

Technical trainees take to the classroom

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 12:35:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Airservices fourth class of future technical officers have begun studying a specialised two-year technical curriculum in at TAFE NSW’s Riverina Institute at Wagga Wagga.

This year’s intake sees 10 trainees working towards a Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering and a further seven trainees working towards a Diploma of Electrical Engineering.

Airservices General Manager People and Change, Peter Ward, said that the trainees have this week begun their induction to the organisation, which over the coming months will see them tour Airservices facilities in Melbourne and radar installations at Wagga Wagga, Mt Macedon and Gellibrand Hill.

“Over the course of two years, the trainees will learn about communications, surveillance, navigation aids and data systems,” Mr Ward said.

“During the first nine months, they will complete the same curriculum, before splitting into specialised streams to complete their respective diplomas. This trade-specific curriculum and training facility will enable them to build the skills required to maintain Australia’s high-tech air traffic control equipment.”

The 17 trainees will also have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge equipment and systems as the nation’s air navigation service provider continues to roll out an extensive capital expenditure program worth almost $1 billion over five years.

"This is an ideal opportunity for young people and those with an interest in combining theoretical and practical learning to gain an industry-recognised qualification while learning skills which will be needed to ensure the future of Australia's robust air navigation system," Mr Ward said.

The trainees were selected from more than 371 applicants nationally and have come from all around Australia. This year’s diverse intake is made up of school leavers and people looking for a career change, and includes three women.

While they will be based in Wagga Wagga throughout training, field placements at Airservices locations around the country will provide them with vital practical experience working on equipment such as instrument landing systems, radar and other air navigation aids.

The latest intake follows the graduation of the second class of 12 trainees at a ceremony in Wagga Wagga in November last year.

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account @AirservicesNews

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com

Airservices keep pilots safe in the sky

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 16:45:00 +1100

This release contains: 4 Photos, 1 Related Document

Don’t be alarmed if you see a low-flying aircraft in your area this month - chances are it’s Airservices Flight Inspection Service (FIS) checking the navigational aids used by pilots daily.

Airservices, the provider of air traffic management services throughout Australia, is responsible for conducting regular flight calibration inspections on approximately 500 navigational aids nationwide.

The inspections will see a specially-equipped twin-engine Beechcraft King Air make several approaches to an airfield to ensure the navigational equipment is operating accurately.

Using three-dimensional laser measuring equipment and GPS technology, information from the navigational aid is relayed to the aircraft and interpreted by specialist aircrew. The data is then analysed by Airservices maintenance engineers to ensure each aid is operating accurately.

The navigational equipment is crucial to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft at major and regional airports, aerodromes and airstrips.

Based in Brisbane, the service will carry out inspections on navigational equipment including terminal area radars, distance measuring equipment, non-directional beacons and instrument landing systems this month at:

WA – Mt Magnet and Carnarvon (1 February), Perth (4-5 February), Busselton, Gingin and Albany (7 February), Albany (8 February), Beermullah (10 February), Pearce (11-12 February), Meekathara and Newman (13 February), Learmonth, Barrow Island, Karratha, Port Headland (14 February), Broome (15 February), Derby, Curtin, Fitzroy Crossing and Halls Creek
(17 February);
Qld – Mt Isa (19 February), Gove (20 February), Charleville and Cunnamulla
(21 February);
NT – Alice Springs, Simpsons Gap and Temple Bar (17 February), Alice Springs and Wallaby (18 February), Alice Springs (19 February);
NSW – Sydney (25-26 February).

Note: There may be changes to the schedule if poor weather or other factors prevent the safety checks from going ahead.

For media enquiries call Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

Images of the aircraft and its equipment are available for download at http://newsroom.airservicesaustralia.com (registration required).

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Specialised checks keep pilots in the sky

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:22:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Photo, 1 Related Document

Don’t be alarmed if you see low flying planes this month because chances are its Airservices Flight Inspection Service (FIS) checking the navigational aids used by pilots daily.

The inspections will see two specially equipped twin-engine Beechcraft King Airs make several approaches to an airfield to ensure the navigational equipment is operating accurately.

Using three-dimensional laser measuring equipment and GPS technology, information from the navigational aid is relayed to aircraft and interpreted by specialist aircrew. The data is then analysed by Airservices maintenance engineers to ensure each aid is operating accurately.

The navigational equipment is crucial to the safe and efficient operation of aircraft at major and regional airports, aerodromes and airstrips.

NSW – Wagga Wagga (18-19 January); Broken Hill (20 January)
SA – Tailem Bend (20 January); Leigh Creek and Woomera (25 January)
Qld – Mt Isa (21 January)
WA – Forrest, Parkerville and Caversham (26 January); Pearce (26 and 28-29 January); Ballidu, Mt Magnet and Meekathara (30 January).

Note: There may be delays to the schedule if poor weather or other factors prevent the safety checks from going ahead. Recent grounding by CASA of some Beechcraft aircraft does not apply to the King Air model.

For media enquiries call Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Airservices supports women’s entry into aviation industry

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Time is running out for women to apply for the Airservices-sponsored Australian Women Pilots’ Association (AWPA) Flight Training Scholarships, with applications closing at the end of this month.

Airservices spokesperson Rob Walker said the sponsorship recognises the contribution that AWPA, founded by pioneer aviator Nancy-Bird Walton in 1950, makes to Australian aviation.

“We’re proud to support the work of the association as they help young women learn to fly and possibly consider a future career in our industry,” Mr Walker said.

“The continued sponsorship is part of our wider contribution to promote the aviation industry and we look forward to continuing our association with AWPA.”

The Airservices and AWPA scholarships offer flight training opportunities for young women and assist them to complete their flight training.

The scholarships can be used for initial pilot training or towards assisting with the cross-country flying component of a private pilot licence.

“We hope these scholarships will encourage women who are passionate about flying to become active, long-term members of the aviation community and beyond,” Mr Walker said.

The scholarships, valued at $8000 each, are offered over two categories with two scholarships in each. Applicants must be members of the association, demonstrate an aptitude for flying and commitment to aviation and be aged over 16.

More information on the scholarships is available on the AWPA website.

For media enquiries call Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

Images of the aircraft and its equipment are available for download at http://newsroom.airservicesaustralia.com (registration required).

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Instrument landing system upgrades for Sydney and Canberra

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:15:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Photo, 1 Related Document

Airservices will this month commence essential upgrade works on instrument landing systems (ILS) at Sydney and Canberra airports as part of a major enhancement to key air navigation technology nationally.

ILS is a course-forming radio navigation aid that supports the safe and efficient movement of air traffic into and out of the airport, particularly during low visibility and bad weather conditions.

In Sydney, work will commence on the ILS on 34L (the southern end of the main runway) on 9 January and run for a period of approximately three months.

Work on the Canberra ILS will begin on 16 January with the removal of the existing ILS from service while the glide path, localiser antenna array and transmitter equipment is replaced.

The new systems at Sydney and Canberra are expected to be commissioned by Airservices before winter.

Acting General Manager Technology and Asset Services, Dan Galazowski, said that ILS was an accurate means for pilots to navigate to the runway when visibility was reduced.

“This work has been planned to occur when weather conditions are generally most favourable, as well as avoiding peak travelling periods such as Christmas,” Mr Galazowski said.

Airservices is working with the airports, airlines and the aviation industry to minimise disruptions to the travelling public and any potential short-term changes in flight patterns as a result.

“However, if bad weather does coincide with the works, there may be some unavoidable delays to air traffic when the ILS is unavailable. Our air traffic controllers will work to minimise these as much as possible,” Mr Galazowski said.

The upgrades will improve the reliability of the systems at both airports and ensure that extended or uncontrolled outages are kept to a minimum in future.

ILS equipment around Australia is gradually being upgraded or replaced by Airservices to ensure continued service provision until 2025.

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or email media@airservicesaustralia.com

Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews

Instrument landing system upgrades at Sydney and Canberra

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:14:00 +1100

Instrument landing system upgrades at Sydney and Canberra

Final preparations underway for Santa’s visit

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 09:30:00 +1100

This release contains: 1 Related Document

Airservices air traffic controllers are making their final preparations ahead of Santa’s visit through Australian airspace this evening.

Working with meteorologists in Airservices National Operations Centre, we will be providing Santa with the latest weather information to allow him to have as smooth a ride as possible.

Airservices spokesman Matt Wardell said that our National Operations Centre plays a key strategic role in the management of air traffic and was well placed to make sure that Santa gets a clear run on Christmas Eve.

“This year Santa is also using satellite-based technology called Smart Tracking which will enable him to fly with greater accuracy than ever before,” Mr Wardell said.

“This will help ensure Santa is able to get to all of the places he needs to visit by the most direct, safest and efficient route without tiring out the reindeer.”

Air traffic controllers will know exactly where Santa is at any given time as his sleigh will broadcast his call-sign, position, altitude, velocity and other data twice per second.

“Christmas Eve is not only a busy evening for Santa who has about eight million homes to visit in Australia, but it will also be a busy night for air traffic controllers as they make sure that Santa has a clear flight path and is given priority over other traffic,” Mr Wardell said.

Santa is expected to conduct more landings and take-offs this evening than commercial aircraft make in Australia each year.

How to track Santa

• Airservices 2011 website www.airservicesaustralia.com/santa11
• Airservices tracks Santa www.facebook.com/airservicessanta11
• AirservicesTV www.youtube.com/user/airservicestv
• AirservicesNews www.twitter.com/airservicesnews

Airservices representatives will be available for interviews until 6pm AEST today.

Media can download high resolution photographs and broadcast quality audio grabs at http://newsroom.airservicesaustralia.com (please register for access). Audio grabs have been provided for Christmas Day.

For media inquiries contact Airservices Media on (02) 6257 2828 or by emailing media@airservicesaustralia.com Get the latest news and updates via our Twitter account: @AirservicesNews.

Santa audio grabs Sunday 25 December

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 13:00:00 +1100

This release contains: 4 Related Documents

Audio grabs good for Sunday 25 December 2011.

Airservices spokesperson Amanda Palmer.

How to track Santa

Airservices 2011 website www.airservicesaustralia.com/santa11
Airservices tracks Santa www.facebook.com/airservicessanta11
AirservicesTV www.youtube.com/user/airservicestv
AirservicesNews www.twitter.com/airservicesnews

Santa audio grabs Saturday 24 December

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +1100

This release contains: 5 Related Documents

Audio grabs good for Saturday 24 December 2011.

Airservices spokesperson Amanda Palmer.

How to track Santa

Airservices 2011 website www.airservicesaustralia.com/santa11
Airservices tracks Santa www.facebook.com/airservicessanta11
AirservicesTV www.youtube.com/user/airservicestv
AirservicesNews www.twitter.com/airservicesnews

Santa audio grabs Friday 23 December

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 11:17:00 +1100

This release contains: 4 Related Documents

Audio grabs good for Friday 23 December 2011.

Airservices spokesperson Amanda Palmer.

How to track Santa

Airservices 2011 website www.airservicesaustralia.com/santa11
Airservices tracks Santa www.facebook.com/airservicessanta11
AirservicesTV www.youtube.com/user/airservicestv
AirservicesNews www.twitter.com/airservicesnews