Rotorua Airport to retain Air Traffic Control Tower
Rotorua Airport is pleased by the Civil Aviation Authority’s decision to retain the airport’s Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower.
The Civil Aviation Authority has released its Aeronautical Study Assessment Report, concluding that if the existing aerodrome control service was removed, the airspace would be significantly less safe.
Airport CEO Mark Gibb says the decision brings a welcome end to a 17 month process with Airways indicating their intention to withdraw ATC from Rotorua and six other regional aerodromes.
Following Airways’ announcement in April 2020, Rotorua Airport undertook a comprehensive aeronautical study to fully understand the requirements for air traffic control services in Rotorua, submitting it for consideration by the Civil Aviation Authority.
Mr Gibb says he and the Board were concerned that the loss of air traffic control might have significant safety risks and directly impact the size and type of aircraft that could fly into Rotorua.
“We were also concerned, from the outset, the significant flow-on effects for Rotorua businesses and the entire district’s economic recovery from the impacts of COVID-19.
“These concerns have guided our persistence in advocating for the retention of the service pending the aeronautical study.”
Mr Gibb says the Civil Aviation Authority’s decision validates Rotorua Airport’s initial view that ATC is an essential service that supports the safe and efficient operation of the airport.
“We are extremely happy with the decision and look forward to working alongside Airways to ensure service continuity at Rotorua Airport.”
Mr Gibb says the Board welcomes ongoing discussion and liaison regarding the safe operation of Rotorua Airport, including early consultation on any potential decisions which may impact its operations.
Rotorua Mayor Steve Chadwick says the CAA’s determination is excellent news.
"This reinforces the reason we fought so hard for the retention of air traffic control services at our airport.
"A fully functioning airport is critical to ensure the safety of our air space and to support our district’s economy and economic recovery," the mayor says.
"Withdrawal of these services would compromise Rotorua’s relevance as a place of choice for people to visit, live, work and study. These services also support air tourism operations, our civil defence response when needed, and air ambulance services so they are absolutely vital for our community.
"Well done to all those involved in the concerted efforts that were made to ensure an appropriate level of service at our airport into the future."
Statement from CAA:
CAA agrees air traffic control services are required for Rotorua
17 September 2021
The Civil Aviation Authority has completed its safety-focused review of Rotorua Regional Airport Limited’s assessment that air traffic control services should remain at the airport.
The aeronautical study prepared for the airport company found retaining an air traffic control service at Rotorua Airport was needed to ensure appropriate safety standards were being met.
After independently reviewing the aeronautical study and its assessment, the CAA has determined that retaining an air traffic control service is necessary to maintain safety standards at Rotorua Airport, which has a mix of commercial, tourism, and recreational activity.
Aeronautical Services Manager Sean Rogers said the CAA’s determination came after a comprehensive review of the airport-commissioned study and had included consideration of the underlying methods which had been used in the airport’s assessment.
“Aeronautical studies are an important process to assess aviation risk and determine how those risks are best managed to maximise the safety of the travelling public,” Mr Rogers said.
“The CAA’s role is to ensure appropriate safety standards are being met by airport operators which enable safe aviation and manage the risks involved with operating a busy mixed-use airfield.
“Our teams thoroughly assessed the aeronautical study presented by Rotorua Airport and our determination was consistent with the study, which recommended air traffic services remain.”
The CAA’s determination comes after a thorough consultation process with interested parties, which included airline and flight companies, airport staff, air traffic control staff and other airspace users.
Note: The CAA’s assessment of the Rotorua Airport aeronautical study and the appropriate level of air traffic risk management was based on the current aerodrome operating environment and level of activity at Rotorua Airport.