Mandatory Frequency Reporting Procedures
General MF Reporting Requirements
The General MF Reporting Requirements establish guidelines for reporting within Mandatory Frequency (MF) areas to ensure effective communication and safety.
Mandatory Frequency Usage
- Reports made pursuant to these requirements must use the specified mandatory frequency designated for the relevant MF area.
- Reports should be directed to the ground station associated with the MF area if operational; otherwise, they should be broadcasted.
MF Reporting Procedures
Before Entering Manoeuvring Area
Before entering the manoeuvring area of an uncontrolled aerodrome within an MF area, the pilot-in-command of both Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) aircraft must report their intentions.
On Departure
The pilot-in-command of a VFR or IFR aircraft departing from an uncontrolled aerodrome within an MF area must:
- Report departure procedure intentions before moving onto the take-off surface.
- Ensure clearance for take-off through radiocommunication and visual observation to avoid potential collisions.
- Report departing from the aerodrome traffic circuit after take-off.
On Arrival
Upon arrival at an uncontrolled aerodrome within an MF area, VFR aircraft pilots must adhere to comprehensive reporting procedures, including:
- Submitting a report before entering the MF area, ideally at least five minutes in advance, detailing position, altitude, estimated time of landing, and arrival procedure intentions.
- Additional reports when joining the aerodrome traffic circuit, positioning on the downwind leg (if applicable), during final approach, and upon clearing the landing surface.
When Flying Continuous Circuits
The pilot-in-command of a VFR aircraft conducting continuous circuits at an uncontrolled aerodrome within an MF area must report:
- When joining the downwind leg of the circuit.
- During final approach, stating intentions.
- After clearing the landing surface.
When Flying through an MF Area
The pilot-in-command of an aircraft traversing through an MF area, regardless of landing, must report:
- Before entering the MF area, providing position, altitude, and intentions, ideally at least five minutes beforehand.
- Upon clearing the MF area, ensuring comprehensive communication throughout the flight.
More Info On MF Procedures
Look to the Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) 602.98 or to the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) section RAC 4.5.4 for more comprehensive information.
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