Don't enter Class E airspace IFR without a clearance - will licence be suspended?

Following other references to Class E airspace on this web page, I am saddened to advise that an Australian pilot risks licence action for operating safely and in a way that would be approved in all other countries around the world.

His crime? Over Orange he climbed his King Air in VMC conditions to flight level 105 without a clearance. Of course, as he was in E airspace this would be fully legal in other countries. However, in Australia it is prohibited. The pilot was supposed to level off at 8,500’. Yes, in a high-speed turbine aircraft where traffic densities are far higher than at 12,500’.

It should be noted that Airservices have refused to train air traffic controllers or to allow CASA to issue regulations that would allow this internationally proven safe procedure to go ahead in Australia. I understand it is because some in Airservices are violently opposed to Class E airspace and wish to see it discontinued.

Can you imagine discontinuing an airspace without first allowing Australian pilots to see the benefits?

I will keep you posted on whether the pilot loses his licence or what type of legal action is taken.

In the meantime if you have filed IFR I would suggest you do not enter Class E airspace without a clearance. Of course, this increases risk of a collision, however, you will be complying with the unique Australian rules.

Hopefully with Bernie Smith now in charge of Airservices we will see some leadership and the international procedures will be accepted quickly in Australia.