The Finer Points - Aviation PodcastJason MillerWhat TRULY Happens Inside Of A Hot MOA? - Aviation Podcast
In short
This podcast episode delves into the complexities of Military Operations Areas (MOAs) and military training routes, offering valuable insights for general aviation pilots. Through discussions with a former military pilot and air traffic controller, the episode explores the etiquette of sharing airspace, communication protocols, and potential hazards, including unmanned cruise missiles. It emphasizes the importance of respecting military operations, checking NOTAMs, and maintaining situational awareness to ensure safe flying practices.
Key takeaways
- Respect military operations and avoid flying through active MOAs.
- Check NOTAMs thoroughly before each flight, especially when flying near military training routes.
- Tune into the guard frequency (121.5) if approached by a military aircraft.
- Understand the difference between IR and VR routes, and the associated buffer zones.
- Be cautious when relying solely on data-driven charts, as they may not display all relevant information.
Chapters
Introduction to MOAs and Military Training Routes
Jason introduces the episode's focus on Military Operations Areas (MOAs) and military training routes, highlighting a discussion with a former military pilot and air traffic controller. He emphasizes the value of this information for general aviation pilots.
Understanding MOAs: Permissions and Practices
Jason explains that MOAs are airspace where the military practices. While not restricted, entering an active MOA can be problematic. The military publishes the time and altitude of MOA usage, found on paper charts or through EFB aeronautical data.
The Inconvenience and Etiquette of MOAs
Jason discusses the two schools of thought on flying through MOAs: some pilots believe it's free airspace unless restricted, while others, including military personnel, consider it rude to disrupt military exercises. He advocates for respecting military operations.
Todd's Insight: MOAs and ATCA
Todd adds that MOAs only go to 17,999 feet, but are often published above that altitude. He explains that this is due to an ATCA (Air Traffic Control Assigned Airspace), which is not well-documented in training materials.
Fernando Explains ATCA and Military Operations
Fernando elaborates on ATCA, explaining it's scheduling airspace with the FAA outside of published airspace. He also discusses the impact of uncoordinated flights on military exercises, including the potential for a 5-mile, 5,000-foot bubble around the intruder.
Pilatus Incident in a Hot MOA
Jason shares a story of a Pilatus pilot who flew into a hot MOA and had a close encounter with an F-16. The Pilatus pilot complained, and the F-16 pilot reportedly got in trouble. This raises questions about communication and intercept procedures.
ATC Communication and Intercept Procedures
Todd clarifies that ATC typically clears military aircraft to a tactical frequency within a MOA, but can contact them on UHF guard. Fernando explains that intercept procedures require getting close enough to identify the aircraft, but this can be risky.
Instrument Flight and MOA Complexity
Scott discusses the complexity of instrument flight through MOAs, noting that IFR clearances are not typically granted through these areas. He shares a website for further information on the vast airspace being considered for military use.
Military Intercepts and Communication
If a military jet comes up off your left wing, the first thing you should do is tune in the guard frequency, which is the emergency communication frequency, that's 121.5. Communication is everything.
Military Training Routes and Unmanned Cruise Missiles
Jason discusses military training routes, highlighting that the military can fly along these routes under the hood at speeds in excess of 250 knots. He shares a story about unmanned cruise missiles being launched along a route near Santa Barbara, emphasizing the importance of checking NOTAMs.
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Summary by InboxHiive. Not affiliated with The Finer Points - Aviation Podcast. Written with AI from the episode audio; check the episode for exact quotes.