The New Airspace

Edinburgh Airport is becoming busier all the time.  Although we have enjoyed many years of XC flying alongside the commercial traffic within the Class E  TMA, a minor airprox (not involving a paraglider) has led to a reclassification of the airspace in central Scotland.

With effect from 24 November 2005, most of the old TMA is being replaced by 4 Class D CTA’s.  We are not permitted to fly in Class D.  Click here for a map of the new airspace with paragliding takeoffs marked.  A Special Use Airspace file detailing the new airspace in Openair text format can be downloaded here.  (Works with SeeYou, Winpilot, CompeGPS etc).

Effect of the New Airspace on Paragliding (Without LofA)

Moorfoots :  Now under a 3500ft ceiling for flights to the SE until you pass Stow .  Previously we had 6000ft, although we still had to dodge a 4500ft wedge of the Scottish TMA.

Broughton :  XC’s from Broughton generally proceed across the tops of the Moorfoots or occasionally to the north of this track.  We used to do this at up to 6000ft.  Now, the majority of this track is limited to 3500ft.

Tinto :  The route northwards towards Stirling / Alloa is now all but impossible with a ceiling as low as 2500ft.

Hillend :  Hillend is not affected by the airspace change.  It has always been inside Edinburgh CTR and subject to ATC clearance in accordance with a formal Letter of Agreement.  However, the recent airspace consultation has highlighted that no current LofA exists, the previous Parapente Ecosse agreement having been terminated some years ago.  A new agreement is therefore required.