UNCONTROLLED COPY WHEN PRINTED Regulatory Article 2307

RA 2307 - Rules of the Air

Rationale ►To ensure safe, efficient and expeditious air traffic all military participants in national
sky must adhere to a common set of rules. The Standardized European Rules of the
Air (SERA) govern air and related operations within the Community and have been
adopted, with derogations, within the UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) 1; military actors
are exempted from these regulations 2. Nevertheless, unnecessary deviation from
SERA could increase Risk to Life for Military and Civilian parties and therefore this
Regulation departs from SERA to the extent necessary to facilitate military aviation.◄

Contents 2307(1): Rules of the Air

2307(2): Withdrawn - Incorporated into RA 2307(1)

Regulation Rules of the Air

2307(1) 2307(1) The Aircraft Commander and/or handling Pilot shall follow
the Rules of the Air.

Acceptable Rules of the Air

Means of Avoidance of Collisions
Compliance 1. Notwithstanding that a flight is being made with Air Traffic Control (ATC)
2307(1) clearance, the Aircraft Commander or handling Pilot should take all possible
measures to ensure that his ►Air System◄ does not collide with other ►Air
Systems,◄ obstacles or terrain.
2. An ►Air System◄ should not be flown in such proximity to other ►Air
Systems◄ as to create a danger of collision.
3. ►Air Systems◄ should not be flown in Formation, except in an emergency or
under operational tasking, unless the Aircraft Commanders have agreed to do so and
have been authorized for that activity. Aviation Duty Holders ►(ADH)◄ and
Accountable Managers (Military Flying) (AM(MF)) should stipulate when and how
Formation Flying is to be Authorized. Orders and instructions should include as a
minimum: briefing requirements; numbers of ►Air Systems◄ permitted; minimum
separation distances; Formation Flying in controlled airspace►3◄; weather minima;
and the occasions when Formation Flying is authorized between dissimilar types or
when non-UK Military ►Air Systems◄ are involved.
4. Tactical Training. ►ADH◄ and AM(MF) should stipulate the occasions when
it might be necessary to depart from the Rules of the Air for the Avoidance of
Collisions for the purposes of tactical training. Alternative procedures and methods of
achieving separation criteria should be promulgated, briefed and Authorized.
5. An ►Air System◄ that is obliged by these Rules of the Air to keep out of the
way of another should avoid passing over, under or in front of the other, unless it
passes well clear and takes into account the effect of ►Air System◄ wake
turbulence.
6. An ►Air System◄ that has right of way under the Rules of the Air should be
flown at a constant course and speed, unless safety dictates otherwise.
7. An ►Air System◄ that is aware that the manoeuvrability of another ►Air
System◄ is impaired should give way to that ►Air System.◄

1
►Refer to The Air Navigation Order 2016 (ANO) and Regulations.
2
Refer to Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 923/2012 of 26 September 2012 Introduction para 10 and ANO Articles
160(3)(C) and 160(4).
3
Refer to RA 3234 - Air System Formations.◄

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Acceptable 8. For the purposes of this Regulation, an ►Air System◄ which is towing a
Means of sailplane4 or other object should be considered to be a single ►Air System◄ under
the command of the Aircraft Commander of the towing ►Air System.◄
Compliance
9. Formations of ►Air Systems◄ are normally less manoeuvrable than single
2307(1) ►Air Systems◄ and are unable to take sudden avoiding action. The handling Pilots of
single ►Air Systems◄ should therefore give way to, and keep clear of, Formations of
►Air Systems.◄
10. ►Air System◄ Collision Avoidance Systems ►(ACAS),◄ where fitted, should
be operated in accordance with the Air System Document Set. Pilots should use
standard R/T phraseology in accordance with CAP 413.
11. Use of ►◄ ACAS Equipment fitted with Resolution Advisory Mode. When
fitted, ACAS equipment capable of Resolution Advisory mode should normally have
this mode selected. A Resolution Advisory warning should be actioned according to
the instruction issued. ►ADH◄ and AM(MF) should promulgate orders or
instructions detailing the circumstances when selection of Traffic Advisory-only (TA
only) mode, or standby/off mode is permitted.
12. ►Air Systems◄ Converging. When two ►Air Systems◄ are converging at
approximately the same level, the ►Air System◄ that has the other on its right
should give way, except as follows:
a. Powered ►Air Systems◄ should give way to airships, sailplanes and
balloons.
b. Airships should give way to sailplanes and balloons.
c. Sailplanes should give way to balloons.
d. Powered ►Air Systems◄ should give way to ►Air Systems◄ towing
other ►Air Systems◄ or other objects.
13. ►Air Systems◄ Approaching Head-On. When two ►Air Systems◄ are
approaching head-on, or approximately so, in the air and there is a danger of collision,
each handling Pilot should alter course to the right, unless to do so would force a
crossing of flight paths.
14. ►Air Systems◄ Overtaking. An ►Air System◄ that is being overtaken in the
air has the right of way, and the handling Pilot of the overtaking ►Air System,◄
whether climbing, descending or in horizontal flight, should keep out of the way of the
other ►Air Systems◄ by altering course to the right. The handling Pilot of the
overtaking ►Air System◄ should keep out of the way of the other ►Air System◄
until that other ►Air System◄ has been passed and is clear, notwithstanding any
change in relative positions of the two ►Air Systems.◄ This does not apply to
sailplanes overtaking other sailplanes, which should pass clear by altering course to
the right or left, whichever is the most appropriate.
15. Flight in the Vicinity of an Aerodrome. An ►Air System,◄ while flying in the
vicinity of what the Aircraft Commander knows, or ought reasonably to know, to be an
Aerodrome or whilst moving on an Aerodrome, should, unless otherwise authorized
by an ATC unit, be flown such that it will:
a. Conform to the pattern of traffic formed by other ►Air Systems◄
intending to land at that Aerodrome, or keep clear of the airspace in which the
pattern is formed.
b. Make all turns to the left unless otherwise permitted by local ATC
procedures or to avoid the danger of collision.
16. Due to the high energy states of low flying ►Air Systems◄ in the UK Military
Low Flying System, it might not be possible to avoid every minor Aerodrome,
helicopter landing site and microlight site en-route. The UK Military Low Flying
Handbook ►(UKMLFHB)◄ states those sites that have mandatory avoids, and the
avoidance criteria for each site, and Aircraft Commanders should observe these
stated avoids by the stipulated distances and heights. Nevertheless, Aircraft

4
A heavier than air ►Air System that◄ does not depend on an engine including gliders, hang gliders, paragliders, and other
comparable craft.

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Acceptable Commanders should also endeavour to plan to avoid other unstated minor sites
Means of where possible.
Compliance 17. ►Air System◄ Landing. Handling Pilots of ►Air Systems◄ in flight or on the
ground or water should give way to ►Air Systems◄ landing or on final approach to
2307(1) land or water.
18. When two or more ►Air Systems◄ are approaching any place for the purpose
of landing, the handling Pilot of the ►Air System◄ at the lower altitude possesses the
right of way, but should not cut in front of another ►Air System◄ that is on final
approach to land or overtake that ►Air System.◄ However, the following exceptions
apply:
a. When an ATC unit has communicated to any ►Air System◄ an order of
priority of landing, the handling Pilot should approach to land in that order.
b. When the handling Pilot is aware that another ►Air System◄ is making
an emergency landing, he should give way to that ►Air System◄ unless
specifically instructed to do otherwise by ATC. Notwithstanding that the handling
Pilot that gives way may have previously received permission to land, the
handling Pilot should not attempt to land until he has received further
permission to do so.
19. ►Air System◄ Take-off. An ►Air System◄ taxiing on the manoeuvring area
of an Aerodrome should give way to ►Air System◄ taking off or about to take off.
20. The handling Pilot of an ►Air System◄ should take off and land: in the
direction indicated by ATC; by the ground signals indicated; or, if no signals are
displayed, into the wind unless good aviation practice demands otherwise.
21. The handling Pilot of an ►Air System◄ should not land on a Runway at an
Aerodrome if the Runway is not clear of other ►Air System,◄ unless otherwise
authorized by the controlling ATC unit.
22. Where take-off and landing is not confined to a Runway:
a. The handling Pilot of an ►Air System,◄ when landing, should leave
clear on his left any ►Air System◄ which has landed or is already landing or
about to take off. If such an ►Air System◄ is about to turn it should turn to the
left after the handling Pilot has satisfied himself that such action will not interfere
with other traffic movements.
b. The handling Pilot of an ►Air System◄ about to take off should take up
position and manoeuvre in such a way as to leave clear on his left any other
►Air System◄ which has already taken off or is about to take off.
23. After landing, the handling Pilot of an ►Air System◄ should move clear of the
landing area as soon as it is safe to do so unless otherwise authorized by an ATC unit.
24. Right of Way on the Ground. Operators of vehicles and ►Air Systems◄
being taxied should give way to ►Air Systems◄ being towed. Operators of vehicles
not towing an ►Air System◄ should give way to ►Air Systems◄ being taxied.
25. Right of Way for Taxiing ►Air Systems◄ In case of danger of collision
between two ►Air Systems◄ taxiing on the movement area of an Aerodrome, the
following should apply:
a. When two ►Air Systems◄ are approaching head-on, or approximately
so, each should stop or where practicable alter its course to the right so as to
keep well clear.
b. When two ►Air Systems◄ are on a converging course, the one which
has the other on its right should give way.
c. An ►Air System◄ which is being overtaken by another ►Air System◄
should have the right-of-way and the overtaking ►Air System◄ should keep
well clear of the other ►Air System.◄
26. Movement of ►Air Systems◄ on Aerodromes. The handling Pilot of an
►Air System◄ should not taxi on the Movement Area or cross an active Runway
without positive ATC clearance, or where the Aerodrome has an Aerodrome Flight

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Acceptable Information Service (FIS) unit for the time being notified on watch, without permission
Means of of that unit. Where ATC or FIS facilities are not available, permission should be
sought from the person in charge of the Aerodrome.
Compliance
27. Collision Avoidance during Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC)
2307(1) Flight. To reduce the risk of a collision, flight in IMC should only be conducted in the
following circumstances:
a. When in receipt of a radar or procedural service; or,
b. When following a published approach or departure procedure; or,
c. In an emergency; or,
d. Where specific approval is given in orders issued by ►ADH◄ or
AM(MF).
28. In IMC Flight where a radar or procedural service is not available or cannot be
obtained, handling Pilots should fly at cruising levels as defined in the UK
►Aeronautical Information Publications (AIP)◄ based on the standard altimeter
setting 1013.2 hPa, above Transition Altitude (TA) or the Safety Altitude, whichever is
higher.
29. In the event of unavoidable or inadvertent entry into IMC handling Pilots should
make every effort to obtain an Air Traffic Service (ATS). If a radar service is
unavailable, wherever possible handling Pilots should avoid areas of known or
expected airborne activity such as airfield approach and departure lanes, sailplane
sites or areas of off-shore helicopter activity.
30. ►Royal Low Level Corridors (RLLC). Military Air Systems should only
operate in RLLC in accordance with RA 3237 5.◄
Low Flying
31. Low-flying is a specific area in which the UK Military claims exemption from the
civilian Rules of the Air under Air Navigation Order article160(3)(c) and 160(4). The
UK Military Low Flying Regulations described in RA 2330►6◄ and the procedures
described in the ►UKMLFHB◄ should be followed, including where the exemption
under article 160(4) of the Air Navigation Order is applied by an organisation to a
civilian registered ►Air System◄ which is under the command of a member of Her
Majesty’s naval, military or air forces.
‘Due Regard’
32. ►Flying that is conducted outside the UK Flight Information Region (FIR) and
Upper Information Region (UIR), in international airspace, but not conducted under
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) flight procedures, should only be
carried out under ‘Due Regard’ and approved by the ADH or operational commander7.
33. ‘Due Regard’ carries a personal responsibility on the part of the Aircraft
Commander and/or handling Pilot to maintain separation from other Air Systems,
vessels and objects (such as offshore platforms). In order to ensure an appropriate
level of safety, flight under ‘Due Regard’ should be subject to one or more of the
following conditions:
a. Air Systems◄ should be operated in Visual Meteorological Conditions
(VMC).
b. ►Air Systems◄ should be operated within radar surveillance and under
►◄ control of a surface or airborne radar facility.
c. ►Air Systems◄ should be equipped with airborne radar and qualified
operators sufficient to provide separation between themselves and other ►Air
Systems.◄

5
►Refer to RA 3237 - Royal Low Level Corridors.
6
Refer to RA 2330 - Low Flying.
7
Refer to RA 1020 - Roles & Responsibilities: Aviation Duty Holder and Aviation Duty Holder – Facing Organizations.◄

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Acceptable Air Traffic Management and Airspace

Means of 34. Aircrew should read these Rules of the Air in conjunction with the Air Traffic
Compliance Management (ATM) 3000 series regulations and the UK ►AIP.◄
2307(1) 35. ATC Systems. Unless alternative ATM/ATC arrangements have been agreed,
Aircraft Commanders should conform to the civil national ATM/ATC systems of all
countries over which they fly.
36. Notification of Arrival and Departure. The Aircraft Commander should notify
the airfield controlling authority of any intention to arrive or depart. Additionally, the
Aircraft Commander should notify any change of intended destination or any
estimated delay in arrival of 45 minutes or more.
37. Flight Plans. Flight plans should be submitted iaw with the UK AIP ENR 1.10
(Flight Planning) and CAP 694 chapter 4.
Flight Rules and Flight Conditions
38. Flights by military Pilots should be conducted either under Instrument Flight
Rules (IFR), Visual Flight Rules (VFR) or Special Visual Flight Rules (SVFR) as
appropriate. ►VMC◄ and ►IMC◄ refer to the weather conditions encountered
during flight. These terms are used to denote actual weather conditions, as distinct
from the flight rules under which the flight is being conducted. VMC exist when the
weather permits flight in accordance with the VFR; IMC exist when weather conditions
are below the minima for VFR flight.
39. ►An Aircraft Commander electing to change the conduct of a flight from IFR to
VFR should notify the appropriate ATS unit specifically that the IFR flight is
cancelled.◄
Visual Flight Rules
40. UK. Within the UK, under VFR, Pilots should maintain safe separation from
other traffic. To operate under VFR, the extant environmental conditions should meet
the VMC minima specified in Table 1, below.
Table 1. UK VMC Minima for VFR Flight.

Airspace
►Altitude Band Flight Visibility Distance from Cloud
Class
A (1) B C
At and above 10 000 ft
(2) D E F 8 km 1500 m horizontally 1000 ft vertically
AMSL
G
Below 10 000 ft AMSL
and above 3000 ft AMSL, A (1) B C
or above 1000 ft above (2) D E F 5 km (3) 1500 m horizontally 1000 ft vertically
terrain, whichever is the G
higher
A (1) B C
5 km (3) 1500 m horizontally 1000 ft vertically
At and below 3000 ft (2) D E
AMSL, or 1000 ft above
terrain, whichever is the 1500 m horizontally 1000 ft vertically
higher or
FG 5 km (4)
clear of cloud and with the
surface in sight (5) ◄

Notes:

1. ►The VMC minima in Class A airspace are included for guidance to Pilots
and do not imply acceptance of VFR flights in Class A airspace.
2. Class C airspace extends vertically from FL195 to FL660.
3. The minimum flight visibility at speeds greater than 250 kts should be 8 km.
4. Minimum flight visibility.
a. Day. At 140 kts or less the minimum flight visibility for all Air Systems
may be reduced to 1500 m if manoeuvred at a speed that will give adequate
opportunity to observe other traffic or any obstacles in time to avoid collision.
Helicopters may be permitted to operate in less than 1500 m flight visibility, if

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Acceptable manoeuvred at a speed that will give adequate opportunity to observe other
Means of traffic or any obstacles in time to avoid collision.
Compliance b. Night. At 140 kts or less the minimum flight visibility for helicopters
only should be 3 km.
2307(1)
5. Distance from cloud.
a. At speeds greater than 250 kts the minimum horizontal clearance
from cloud should be 1500 m.
b. At speeds greater than 140 kts in the UK Military Low Flying System
the minimum vertical distance from cloud should be 500 ft.◄
41. Outside the UK. Outside the UK, Pilots should normally comply with the VFR
of the country over which they are flying, unless UK criteria are more restrictive, in
which case UK criteria are to be followed.
42. Flight Visibility. For the purposes of an ►Air System◄ taking off from, or
approaching to land at, an Aerodrome within Class B, C, or D airspace, the visibility, if
any, communicated to the handling Pilot by the appropriate ATC unit should be taken
to be the extant flight visibility.
43. ►Class D VFR Operations.
a. Except when a special VFR clearance is obtained from an ATC unit, VFR
flights should not take off or land at an Aerodrome within a control zone, or
enter the Aerodrome Traffic Zone or Aerodrome Traffic circuit when the reported
meteorological conditions at that Aerodrome are below the following minima:
(1) The ceiling is less than 450 m (1500 ft); or
(2) The ground visibility is less than 5 km.
b. For fixed wing and helicopter flights wishing to operate under VFR to or
from an Aerodrome or enter the Aerodrome Traffic Zone or Aerodrome Traffic
circuit in class D airspace, the ground visibility should be used.◄
44. VFR Flight Plans. Pilots intending to fly in Class B, C or D ►◄ airspace
should complete a flight plan and obtain an ATC clearance prior to entry to the
airspace.
45. Continuous Watch. When flying within Class A, B, C, D and IFR in E airspace,
Pilots should maintain a continuous watch on the notified radio frequency and comply
with any instructions given by the appropriate ATC unit.
46. Exceptions to the rules for the VFR Flight Plan and Continuous Watch rules
above should only be as follows:
a. Gliders that: are flying during daylight hours; and, are operating within
controlled airspace designed and Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued for this
exception; and, which maintain 1500 m horizontal and 1000 ft vertical clearance
from cloud; and, possess flight visibility of at least 8 km.
b. Powered ►Air Systems◄ which do not possess radio equipment and
that: are flying during daylight hours; and, are operating within controlled
airspace designed and NOTAM for this exception; and, which maintain 1500 m
horizontal and 1000 ft vertical clearance from cloud; and, possess flight visibility
of at least 5 km.
c. The above 2 types of ►Air System◄ where permission has been granted
by the appropriate ATC unit.
d. VFR flight plans should not be submitted for VFR flight in Class C
airspace above FL 195 or along a Class C ATS route at any level.
Instrument Flight Rules
47. UK. Within the UK, Pilots should follow IFR as follows:
a. Outside Controlled Airspace (CAS). Above TA, Pilots should select
cruising levels as defined by the UK AIP, based on the standard altimeter

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Acceptable setting 1013.2 hPa, unless they are flying in conformity with instructions from
Means of ATC, HM Ship or an Air Surveillance and Control System Unit.
Compliance Note:
2307(1) Throughout any period of level flight above the transition altitude, other than at a
Flight Level, the ►Air System◄ should be in receipt of a surveillance radar
service or carrying out a holding procedure established in relation to an airfield.
b. Inside CAS. Inside CAS, the following conditions should be complied
with when the flight is proceeding as General Air Traffic:
(1) A flight plan should be submitted to the appropriate Air Traffic
Control Centre (ATCC).
(2) Clearance for the flight should be obtained from the appropriate
ATCC.
(3) A Pilot should possess a valid instrument rating.
(4) The ►Air System◄ should carry appropriate radio equipment
operating on the notified radio frequencies.
(5) The ►Air System◄ should carry radio-navigation equipment
appropriate to the specific airspace requirements.
(6) The flight should be conducted iaw with the ATC clearance and
instructions received.
48. Outside the UK. Outside the UK, IFR flights should be conducted iaw the
applicable national procedures.
49. IFR and Safety Altitude. Under normal flying conditions the ►IFR◄ do not
allow flight below 3000 ft in IMC unless conforming with provisions listed at Deviations
from Standard IFR (below). Additionally, military exercises might necessitate
operations above the transition altitude with flight profiles that do not conform to the
standard IFR. Such exercises should conduct the appropriate liaison with the
Airspace Utilisation Section (AUS) (Civ: 0207 453 6599) and other MOD and civil
airspace authorities, and should take appropriate NOTAM and warning action once
flight profiles have been agreed.
Applicability of VFR and IFR
50. Flight Under IFR. IFR flying should be conducted as follows:
a. Within the UK, flight under IFR is mandatory:
(1) In IMC.
(2) In Class A airspace, except where Special Visual Flight Rules
(SVFR) is permitted.
(3) In Class C airspace when VFR operations are not permitted.
51. Flight Under VFR. With the exception of SVFR, a flight should only be
conducted under VFR in circumstances that do not mandate IFR.
52. Special Visual Flight Rules (SVFR). SVFR flights may be authorized to
operate within a control zone, subject to ATC clearance. Except when permitted for
helicopters in special cases such as medical flights, search and rescue operations and
fire-fighting the Aircraft Commander should ensure that:
a. Flight is conducted clear of cloud and with the surface in sight and;
b. The flight visibility is not less than 1500 m or, for helicopters, not less
than 800 m and;
c. Speed is 140 kts IAS or less to give adequate opportunity to observe
other traffic and any obstacles in time to avoid a collision; and
d. Flight is conducted day only, unless otherwise permitted by ATC and;
e. Cloud ceiling is not less than 600 ft agl.

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Acceptable Deviations from Standard IFR

Means of 53. Any UK ►military Air System◄ operating in IMC over the sea outside airspace
Compliance classified A to F, should comply with published IFR procedures for the relevant UK
FIR concerned except when:
2307(1)
a. In airspace NOTAM for flight not in accordance with the IFR.
b. In a Danger Area which is notified as active and allocated to the flying
unit.
c. In accordance with operation orders for specific exercises where
allocated operating levels preclude flight at the appropriate IFR level - in the
normal course the operational sponsor for the exercise should ensure that any
necessary NOTAM action is taken.
d. Flying in conformity with instructions by ATC, an HM Ship or an Air
Defence unit (see note).
Note:
Other than for reasons of safety, or as directed by sub-paras (1) to (3) above,
a controlling unit should not direct an ►Air System◄ in level cruising flight to
fly at a non semi-circular level unless the ►Air System◄ is in receipt of a
recognised radar service. If provided by a Ship, only an air warning or air
control radar should be used and the service should be provided from a
dedicated console where the appropriate radar is available at all times.
Tactical Maritime and Non-Tactical Maritime Sorties
54. Descent and Operations below 3000 ft IMC outside CAS. ►Air Systems◄
operating in the maritime environment should only be Authorized to descend and
operate below 3000 ft and to continue to operate below safety altitude in IMC over the
sea subject to compliance with the following conditions:
Table 2. Tactical Maritime and Non-Tactical Maritime Sorties.

TACTICAL MARITIME SORTIE

Once 2 nm clear of the coast (5 nm for fixed wing
►Air Systems◄), and heading away from land,
►Air Systems◄ may descend below their Safety Altitude
RADAR SERVICE
and continue down to the Authorized operating altitude.
AVAILABLE
Descent below 200 ft may only take place when visual
with the surface, or with reference to a serviceable
radio/radar altimeter.
Once 5 nm clear of the coast, and heading away from
land, ►Air Systems◄ may descend below their Safety
Altitude and continue to 500 ft Minimum Separation
NO RADAR SERVICE
Distance (MSD) with reference to a serviceable barometric
AVAILABLE
altimeter. If 5 nm separation from land cannot be
maintained then the ►Air System◄ must climb to Safety
Altitude.
NON-TACTICAL MARITIME SORTIE
Once 2 nm clear of the coast (5 nm for fixed wing
►Air Systems◄), and heading away from land,
►Air Systems◄ may descend below their Safety
Altitude and continue to 500 ft MSD. They may then
RADAR SERVICE remain in IMC at 500 ft MSD provided that they have
AVAILABLE been Authorized to do so (and they remain greater
than 5 nm from the coast). Flight below 500 ft MSD in
IMC is only permitted when either:
a. Specifically Authorized.

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Acceptable b. Conducting a radar approach (including

Means of Helicopter Controlled Approach (HCA)/Ship
Controlled Approach (SCA)/Emergency Low
Compliance Visibility Approach (ELVA).
2307(1)
Once 5 nm clear of the coast, and heading away from
land, ►Air Systems◄ may descend to 500 ft MSD in an
attempt to gain VMC. If still IMC at this height then the
NO RADAR SERVICE
►Air System◄ must climb to Safety Altitude. If still IMC
AVAILABLE
then a further climb must be made until VMC is achieved,
or until above the transition altitude where standard IFR
apply.

Note:
1. Tactical maritime. Sorties involving operations/training that are
constrained in selection of operating levels/altitudes by a need to
achieve a specific sortie aim such as Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW),
Airborne Early Warning (AEW), Anti Surface Warfare (ASUW),
Maritime Counter Terrorism (MCT) and Search and Rescue (SAR).
2. Non-Tactical maritime. Sorties that do not involve flight in a tactical
profile such as Helicopter Delivery Service (HDS), Senior Officer Taxi
(SOOTAX), Navigation Exercise (NAVEX), embarkation etc.
3. Whenever possible and consistent with the Emissions Control
(EMCON) policy in force, ►Air Systems◄ operating IMC should be
in receipt of a radar service.
4. Safety Altitude outside of 5 nm from the coast should be a minimum
of 1000 ft AMSL.
55. Fixed wing ►Air Systems◄ operating in the maritime environment should be
Authorized to descend not lower than 500 ft MSD in IMC with reference to a
barometric altimeter and 300 ft MSD with reference a serviceable radio/radar altimeter.
Descent below 300 ft MSD should be specifically Authorized and the Pilot should be
visual with the surface, or on recovery, when use should be made of a ship's air
warning/air control radar or ►Air System◄ radar to ensure safe separation from
surface contacts.
56. ►Air Systems◄ simulating missile-attack profiles for training present additional
risk because the flight profile converges on HM Ships. These sorties should only be
Authorized to descend below 3000 ft AMSL IMC subject to specific approval by the
►ADH◄ and additional criteria as follows:
a. The ►Air System◄ being in receipt of a radar service from an ATC unit
or under the control of a suitably qualified ►Air System◄ Controller (AC),
Fighter Controller (FC), Air Traffic Control Officer (ATCO) using ship's warning
or air control radar or under the control of an AEW ►Air System.◄
b. The descent is conducted 5 nm clear and heading away from land.
c. A minimum of 750 ft AMSL for multiple ►Air Systems◄ and 500 ft AMSL
for single ►Air Systems.◄
57. Helicopter Instrument Flying Practice Areas. Helicopters engaged in
instrument flying practice or test flights should only operate below 3000 ft in IMC
subject to the following conditions:
a. The ►Air System◄ is in receipt of a radar service and the flight is
conducted within a designated training area or area which is under the control of
the unit providing the radar service, and the following restrictions apply:
(1) Over land, the lower limit is fixed at an altitude/height which will
ensure 1000 ft terrain clearance or at 1500 ft AMSL if higher.
(2) Over the sea, helicopters should operate not lower than 500 ft
AMSL providing that the ►Air System◄ can be kept at least 2 nm clear
of the coast and/or surface contacts when below safety altitude.

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Acceptable VFR Night Flying

Means of 58. Military ►Air Systems◄ should follow the normal VFR and adhere to the VMC
Compliance criteria in Table 1. The UK Military Low Flying Regulations described in RA 2330►6◄
also apply, where appropriate.
2307(1)
Safety Altitude
59. ►ADH◄ and AM(MF) should issue orders concerning safety altitudes as
necessary to ensure the safe navigation of ►Air Systems◄ within their AOR. In doing
so, the following principles apply.
60. En Route. The safety altitude for a particular route or exercise area should be
calculated by adding a minimum of 1000 ft to the elevation (ie height above mean sea
level) of the highest obstacle located, as a minimum, within 5 nm of the ►Air
System◄ position rounded up to the next 100 ft. If the flight is to take place over
mountainous terrain - defined as terrain of 3000 ft AMSL or higher - the increment will
be increased to a minimum of 2000 ft. When severe turbulence is anticipated,
consideration should be given to increasing the safety altitude further to compensate
for the hazardous conditions that are likely to occur. Where areas of turbulence
associated with mountain and leewaves are forecast or known to be present, a
minimum in-flight clearance of 5000 ft is necessary above mountains which are up to
5000 ft in height above the surrounding terrain. For higher mountains the clearance
should be at least equal to their height above the terrain.
Descent Below Safety Altitude
61. Over Land. Unless specifically Authorized, Aircraft Commanders or handling
Pilots should not descend below safety altitude, except when compelled to do so in
an emergency, unless the Pilot is in visual contact with the surface, is using a
serviceable terrain- following radar equipment or can let down by means of an
approved radio or radar terminal approach procedure provided by ►Air System◄ ATC
units. Instructions for ►Air Systems◄ equipped with terrain-following radar, both in
IMC and at night, should be issued by ►ADH◄ and AM(MF).
62. Offshore. Unless special dispensation has been granted by the Ministry of
Defence and subject to any more stringent regulations that ►ADH◄ and AM(MF) may
have imposed, when descending over the sea more than 5 nm from the coast, ►Air
Systems◄ should only descend below safety altitude in IMC to a minimum of 500 ft
above Authorized MSD in an attempt to achieve VMC below cloud. If cloud is not
cleared by 500 ft above authorized MSD, or VMC cannot be achieved from this
position, ►Air Systems◄ should climb to safety altitude and, if still IMC, climb until
VMC is achieved or until above 3000 ft AMSL. Whenever possible, descents should
be planned such that, if made in IMC, they will occur in areas clear of known airborne
activity (for example, civil helicopter offshore operations) or where such activity can be
determined and avoided.
►Air System◄ Lighting
63. Navigation Lights. Between sunset and sunrise, navigation lights should be
displayed by ►Air Systems◄ in flight, taxiing, being towed and whenever possible
when being ground-run. At night, in the event of a navigation light failure in flight, the
►Air System◄ should be landed as soon as practicable unless authorized by the
appropriate ►ATC◄ unit to continue.
a. Within the United Kingdom. In exceptional circumstances, between
sunset and sunrise, planned activity without navigation lights should only take
place as follows:
(1) Within segregated airspace. This option should be used wherever
and whenever practical; or,
(2) ►Air Systems◄ should be in receipt of a radar service from an
Area Radar Unit as follows:
(a) In accordance with the recurring Airspace Change Notice
issued for the conduct of lights out activity in non-segregated
airspace.

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Acceptable (b) All ►Air Systems◄ should squawk Mode 3A with C and
Means of Mode S where fitted.
Compliance (c) In the event of transponder failure or the failure of the radar
being used to provide the radar service, navigation lights should
2307(1) be turned on immediately; or,
(3) Under the terms of the UK AIP, which describes the procedures for
the notification and clearance of Unusual Aerial Activity (UAA); or,
(4) When low flying without lights in the UK Low Military Flying
System, such flying should be conducted in accordance with the
►UKMLFHB;◄ or,
b. Outside the United Kingdom. In accordance with appropriate national
requirements. Clearances for such flights should be negotiated locally with the
national authorities concerned.
64. Anti-Collision Lights (Including High-Intensity Strobe Lights (HISLs)). If
any anti-collision lights fail during flight at night the ►Air System◄ should land as
soon as it is safe to do so, unless authorized by the appropriate ATC unit to continue
its flight. An ►Air System◄ may continue to fly during the day in the event of a failure
of an anti-collision light provided the light is repaired at the earliest practicable
opportunity. When installed, anti-collision lights should be used as follows:
a. During Flight. Anti-collision lights should be selected on at all times
when the ►Air System◄ is being operated with the following exceptions:
(1) During exercises with night vision aids that could be adversely
affected by high intensity lighting.
(2) When ►Air Systems◄ are conducting aerial photographic
operations and the anti-collision lights might cause unwanted reflection.
(3) During night operations in the immediate vicinity of the flight-deck
at sea.
(4) During Formation Flying, when anti-collision lights can be switched
off at the discretion of the Formation Leader.
(5) At any other time when the Aircraft Commander determines that
the safe operation of his or any other ►Air System◄ is being
jeopardized.
b. On the Ground
(1) Fixed-wing ►Air System◄ anti-collision lights (not HISL) should
normally be selected on for engine starting (except in an ►Air System◄
Shelter) and while taxiing.
(2) Helicopter anti-collision lights should normally be selected on
whenever the rotors are running or about to run.
►Air System◄ Marshalling Signals and Airfield Ground Signals
65. Personnel involved in flying operations should remain proficient in the use and
interpretation of ►Air System◄ marshalling signals and airfield ground signals. ►Air
System◄ marshalling signals for military operations are detailed in STANAG 3117►8◄.
Military Airfield ground signals are detailed in the ►Military Aviation Authority (MAA)◄
Manual of Aerodrome Design and Safeguarding. ICAO Annex 2►9◄ details the
marshalling signals and visual ground signals used at civilian airfields. The details of
STANAG 3117 are available to Defence Contractor Flying Organizations by request to
the MAA.
Miscellaneous Rules of the Air
66. Aerobatic Manoeuvres. Unless necessary and specifically Authorized,
aerobatic manoeuvres should not be performed: over the congested area of any city,

8
►Refer to STANAG 3117 Aircraft Marshalling Signals.
9
Refer to Annex 2 to the Convention on International Civil Aviation Rules of the Air.◄

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Acceptable town or settlement; or, within controlled airspace except with the consent of the
Means of appropriate ATC unit.
Compliance 67. Simulated Instrument Flying. Simulated Instrument Flying where Authorized,
should normally only be carried out in ►Air System◄ fitted with dual controls and
2307(1) should also be supervised by a second Pilot. Where military ►Air Systems◄ are not
fitted with a second set of controls, or in circumstances specifically approved by the
►ADH◄ or AM(MF) in orders, ‘single-Pilot’ Simulated Instrument Flying should only
be conducted as follows:
a. Unusual Positions or Practise Forced Landings should not be practised.
b. A Suitably Qualified and Experienced Person (SQEP) safety lookout
should be present. For safety lookout purposes, SQEP is defined as current
and qualified Pilots, Observers, or other nominated Aircrew members as
specified in orders who have completed an appropriate safety lookout training
package.
c. Where possible, segregated airspace should be used.
d. A radar service should be used.
68. Test Flying Over Congested Areas. Unless necessary and specifically
Authorized, Test Flying should not be conducted over a congested area except to the
extent that it is necessary to do so in order to take-off or land iaw normal aviation
practice.
Reporting Hazardous Conditions. If an Aircraft Commander encounters hazardous
conditions in the course of a flight, he should inform the appropriate ATC unit of the
particulars of such conditions that may be pertinent to the safety of other ►Air
Systems.◄

Guidance Rules of the Air

Material Applicability of Rules of the Air
2307(1) 69. These regulations reflect the Rules of the Air as applicable within the UK FIR
and are based upon the UK Air Navigation Order and any agreed military exemptions.
For operations outside UK airspace, flights will be conducted iaw national procedures
unless specific exemptions have been agreed.
70. For the avoidance of doubt, any reference to ‘Competent Authority’ within the
wider SERA regulations will mean the MAA in the first instance for any UK military
registered Air Systems.
Avoidance of Collisions
71. Right-Hand Traffic Rule. The handling Pilot of an ►Air System◄ which is
flying within the UK in sight of the ground and following a road, railway, canal or
coastline, or any other landmarks, is recommended to keep such a line of landmarks
on his left, except where promulgated locally or when acting upon instructions given
by the appropriate ATC unit.
72. Use of ACAS Equipment fitted with Resolution Advisory Mode. The use of
ACAS equipment in TA-only mode, or in standby/off mode, may be ordered where it
would not be appropriate to use Resolution Advisory mode. These circumstances may
include, but are not restricted to: circuit flying; air intercept training; air to air refuelling;
air combat training; formation flying; and high energy manoeuvring. ►ADH◄ and
AM(MF) must consider the impact of an unserviceable ACAS on ►Air System◄
operating procedures.
73. Prohibition or Restriction of Military Flying Within the UK ►FIR and
UIR.◄ When necessary, the MOD may prohibit, restrict or impose conditions on
flights by UK Military ►Air Systems◄ or military ►Air Systems◄ of any visiting force
in any airspace within the United Kingdom ►◄ FIR/UIR. Prohibitions, restrictions or
conditions imposed by the MOD may apply either generally or in relation to a specific
class of ►Air System.◄ Unless operationally necessary, UK military ►Air Systems◄
or military ►Air Systems◄ of any visiting force will observe all UK National and

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Guidance Military, Prohibited and Restricted Areas detailed within the UK MILAIP and the
Material ►UKMLFHB.◄

2307(1) 74. ’Due Regard’. Freedom of the high seas includes the right of ►Air Systems◄
of all nations to use the airspace over the high seas in accordance with the
international Law of the Sea Convention of 1958 and 1982 which state that the
freedom of the high seas includes the right of military ►Air Systems◄ to use the
airspace above those seas without the permission of the Coastal States for over-flight
and related military operations. The sovereignty of a nation state extends beyond its
land area to the outer limit of its territorial seas. The airspace beyond the territorial sea
is considered international airspace, where permission of the coastal state is not
required for over flight and related military operations. Where for reasons of military
contingencies or routine aircraft carrier operations or other training activities over the
high seas, the principles of ‘Due Regard’ apply.
75. IFR Flight. IFR flying may be conducted in VMC. Whenever possible, it is
recommended that an appropriate radar service is used when operating under IFR,
irrespective of meteorological conditions.
76. Operational Pattern Flying. Where an ►Air System◄ is flying an operational
pattern (eg on a Combat Air Patrol station or monitoring a Joint Engagement Zone
barrier) and cannot maintain VMC, it will seldom be practicable to fly at appropriate
cruising levels. In such cases, the ►Air System◄ will be deprived of even the limited
protection afforded by the semi-circular system. In these circumstances and when the
EMCON policy permits, it is recommended that a radar service be sought wherever
possible.
Airspace and Air Traffic Management – General
77. International Categorization. Airspace is subdivided into various classes and
functional areas in order to meet national or international airspace management
requirements. For the purposes of international standardization, certain of these
subdivisions are classified according to an ICAO system within which minimum ATS
are specified. The 7 airspace classifications (Classes A to G) agreed within ICAO
have been adopted by the UK and are described in the UK AIP.
78. UK ►FIR and UIR.◄ UK airspace, including that over the surrounding waters,
is divided into 2 FIR. Above each of these FIR is a UIR. These 4 regions are
collectively termed the London and Scottish FIR/UIR. The London and Scottish
FlR/UIR are divided vertically into the following bands:
a. UIR. Upper Airspace (UAS) from FL245 to unlimited.
b. FIR. Lower Airspace (LAS) from surface level to below FL245.
Full details of airspace boundaries are detailed in the UK AIP and RAF FLIPs.
79. Controlled Airspace (CAS). This is a generic term which is used to describe
airspace which is ‘notified’ as such in the UK AIP; within this airspace, civil Pilots and
military Aircraft Commanders are required to comply with ATC and other regulations
forming part of the UK Air Navigation Order (ANO) and Rules of the Air Regulations.
In essence, CAS comprises different types of control zone and control area to which
are assigned one of the ICAO Airspace Classifications A to E (classes F and G are
reserved for ‘uncontrolled’ airspace). See UK AIP for a breakdown of UK airspace by
class.
80. Air Traffic Management. In the UK, the system of ATC is based on a joint
civil/military scheme in which the military aviation authorities observe such ICAO
regulations as have been accepted by the Civil Aviation Authority, provided they do
not impair the operational freedom of military ►Air Systems.◄ UK flight information
services, separation standards and procedures applicable to all classes of airspace
are detailed in ATM 3000 series and CAP 774.
81. Cruising Levels Are detailed within the UK AIP.

Regulation ►Air System◄ Lighting

2307(2) 2307(2) Withdrawn - Incorporated into RA 2307(1).

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Acceptable ►Air System◄ Lighting

Means of 82. Withdrawn - Incorporated into RA 2307(1).
Compliance
2307(2)

Guidance ►Air System◄ Lighting

Material 83. Withdrawn - Incorporated into RA 2307(1).
2307(2)

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