Class F Airspace in Germany

[Guy Corbett]

Could someone please clarify the rules for VFR glider
flights in class F in Germany, preferably wih a link
to the regulations?

We are going for an annual visit in a fortnight and
will be flying near the Coburg zone. On a previous
visit we were told that it is mandatory to get permission
to enter but if this is the case I wonder how it differs
from class D.

[Marian Aldenhövel]

Hi,

> On a previous visit we were told that it is mandatory to get
> permission to enter

Class F is temporarily activated (usually when IFR departures or
arrivals occur). If not active there is no difference to Class G.

Even if active it is still uncontrolled airspace but with higher
minimums. IIRC they are 5km visibility, 1500m lateral and 1000ft
vertical separation from clouds.

So when weather is above those minimums you can enter. There is no
clearance required. Nor do you have to be on the frequency. Nor is there
any separation from other traffic.

If below minimums AND the airspace F is active you cannot enter. That
is the only case where you legally need to know the activation status
and thus have to get on the phone or radio to find out.

In practice it is a good idea to inquire in any case and if active
avoid.

Ciao, MM
--
Marian Aldenhövel, Rosenhain 23, 53123 Bonn
http://www.marian-aldenhoevel.de
"Success is the happy feeling you get between the time you
do something and the time you tell a woman what you did."

[Stefan]

Simply put: For VFR traffic, if inactive, it's equal to Class G. If
active, it's equal to class E.

If you don't want to talk to the airport to which a particular air space
belongs, then assume it active, i.e. Class E. Which means that you
should expect IFR arrivals or departures and look out and behave
accordingly. No clearance required, but if you talk to the tower, they
will (or should) provide you with information about IFR traffic.

Stefan

[Walter Kronester]

Hi,
Marian and Stefan already wrote excellent answers.
In addition let me point you to this link of the German Air Traffic Control
Agency:
http://www.dfs.de/dfs/internet/english/inhalt/aviation_services_business/primaernavigation/pilot_services/index.jsp?activemenu=airspace_structure
Have a nice time in Germany
Walter

[Guy Corbett]

Thanks for all the replies. The position is clear now.