Aerodromes, airspace classification and ATS
Airspace classes in NZ
NZ uses Classes A, C, D, E and G. Class A is IFR only, all aircraft separated. Class C: IFR separated from IFR and VFR; VFR aircraft receive traffic information and are separated from IFR. Class D: IFR separated from IFR, traffic information to VFR. Class E: IFR separated from IFR, VFR receives traffic information. Class G is uncontrolled. Control zones (CTRs) around controlled aerodromes are Class C or D and require an ATC clearance; control areas (CTAs) sit above.
Special use airspace
Restricted areas, danger areas, military operating areas, low flying zones, mandatory broadcast zones and parachute areas are designated under the airspace rules. Pilots must check the AIP and NOTAMs; entry conditions vary from avoid to radio mandatory.
Aerodrome operating minima
Operators establish minima under Parts 91, 121, 125 and 135: take-off minima, approach minima and alternate minima. A Category I ILS typically needs a 200 ft decision height and 550 m RVR. Lower minima require approved low-visibility operations, crew and aerodrome qualification. If RVR is below minima at the decision point, the approach is abandoned and a missed approach flown.
Worked example
An airport reports RVR 400 m and the operator's Cat I minimum is 550 m. The crew may not commence the approach; if already past the point, they must go around. A lower minimum would need approved LVO procedures, aerodrome low-visibility procedures and crew currency - not just a lower number in the manual.
Traps
Assuming Class D gives VFR separation; entering a CTR without a clearance; using company minima without checking the actual approach lighting; forgetting alternate minima and the approach ban.