Airspace classification, air traffic services, flight rules and clearances
Airspace and ATS
PNG applies ICAO airspace classes. In controlled airspace (Classes A–E as designated), ATC clearance and two-way radio are required as prescribed; Class G is uncontrolled, but see-and-avoid and position reporting still apply. ATS provides air traffic control, flight information and alerting services. A clearance is an instruction with limits-it does not authorise flight into terrain, cloud or another aircraft.
Flight rules and clearances
VFR requires visual meteorological conditions and cloud clearance appropriate to the airspace class. IFR requires an instrument rating, suitable equipment and an ATC clearance. Pilots must read back safety-related clearances, maintain assigned levels and report position where required. Departure, en-route and arrival clearances may be amended; the PIC must clarify any ambiguity before proceeding.
Worked example
A VFR pilot requests transit through a controlled zone. ATC replies, “Stand by.” The pilot enters the zone because the radio is working. This is a breach: “stand by” is not a clearance. The pilot must remain clear until an explicit clearance is received and read back.
Traps
A clearance does not cancel the PIC’s terrain and weather responsibility. “Roger” is not a read-back of a clearance. Class G does not mean “no rules”. Do not assume a flight plan is a clearance.