This is a post by author Tony King. Tony is the managing director at Universal Aviation Australia – Sydney. Tony is an expert on business aircraft operations in Australia and can be contacted at tonyking@universalaviation.aero.

This business aviation blog post continues from our article last week, entitled “Australian BizAv Ops Checklist – Part 1: Airport Considerations.”

Depending upon your type of operation and destination in Australia, airport slots and permits can be critical planning items. Be aware of peak periods of commercial airline operations, as well as all applicable permit requirements.

If you are conducting bizav ops to Australia, the following is an overview of what you need to know:

1. Australian landing permits

While private non-revenue operators do not require landing permits for operations to Australia, charter (non-scheduled commercial) flights must obtain an “aircraft entry” by completing Form 094. Although “aircraft entry” is not really a landing permit, it allows Australian Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to review your flight information and determine if cabotage may be an issue. To apply for “aircraft entry,” a charter operator fills out Form 094 and submits all specified documentation, including certificates of airworthiness and registration and worldwide insurance. This form is sent directly to CAA, and authorities will advise if there are any issues or additional requirements. Third-party providers can assist with this process.

2. Airport slots

Airport slots are needed for Sydney Int.’l (YSSY), Brisbane Int.’l (YBBN), and Perth Int.’l (YPPH) with slot times confirmed in Zulu/UTC time. Slots are processed by the airport slot coordinator, and confirmation numbers are provided for each arrival/departure slot. Slot deviation varies depending upon where you’re arriving from/departing to. However, for international arrivals and departures, slot deviation is normally +/- 15 minutes. Slot availability can be problematic at YBBN and YPPH, but you may, from time to time, experience slot limitations at YSSY.

3. Sydney slot procedure

Slots are required for Sydney (YSSY) for all arrivals/departures daily, 0600-2300 local. Slots should always be requested as early as possible – and no later than 48 hours in advance. Urgent slots will be granted if available. While slot deviation at YSSY is +/- 15 minutes for domestic operations, deviation is extended to +/- 30 minutes for international arrivals. Your 3rd-party provider will assist in making all necessary airport slot arrangements at this location. During high-traffic periods, typically early mornings and late afternoons, airport slot availability can be an issue at YSSY.

4. Brisbane slot procedure

Slots are needed for all operations to/from YBBN. Slot deviation is +/- 15 minutes of approved arrival/departure time. Slot requests can be looked after by your 3rd-party provider.

5. Perth slot procedure

Perth is the most difficult Australian location for slots, especially at peak times. Arrival slots are required for all operations traveling to YPPH Monday-Friday, 0830-2200 local. Departure slots are also required Monday-Friday, 0530-0830 local. Slot validity at YPPH is just +/- 5 minutes with all slot requests confirmed in Zulu/UTC time.

6. International trash disposal

Upon your arrival in Australia, all onboard in-flight catering – with the exception of certain packaged and shelf-stable foods – will be removed and destroyed. It’s suggested that you talk with your ground handler regarding any packaged foods you wish to leave onboard or import into Australia.

7. Strict quarantine rules for onboard pets

It is strongly recommended not to bring pets into Australia. If you bring any pet into Australia, it will automatically be placed into quarantine for 90 days or possibly destroyed. There are no exceptions to these strict requirements.

8. Quarantine spray on arrival

Being a large island continent, Australia has very strict quarantine controls. It is mandatory for all aircraft to conduct quarantine disinsection spray with approved products either on arrival or during flight at top of descent. If carried out during flight, the empty can and completed Disinsection Certificate must be shown from the Flight Deck Window prior to doors opening. If unable to comply with this procedure, crew members and passengers will be required to remain on board during the completion of this procedure on arrival. Larger aircraft with baggage holds must also use a cargo hold spray. Both sprays can be obtained from certain suppliers.

9. Additional reading: Australian Operations Checklist – Series Index

Note: Links will be updated as articles are published.

• Part 1 – Airport considerations
• Part 2 – Permit & slot considerations
• Part 3 – Curfews, noise, security & ADS-B
• Part 4 – CIQ and documentation

Conclusion

While airport slots are typically not an issue in Australia, be mindful of slot limitations during periods of busy commercial airline activity. At certain locations slot windows are very short. Be mindful of strict Australian quarantine requirements. If you’re traveling with a pet onboard, Fido or Fluffy may be in for a long quarantine experience – so best practice is to avoid bringing pets, if possible!

Questions?

If you have any questions about this article or would like assistance planning your next trip to Australia, contact me at christinevamvakas@universalaviation.aero.