Cross-Border Sectors
Following the establishment of DANUBE Functional Airspace Block (DANUBE FAB) the two partner States of Romania and Bulgaria implemented two cross-border sectors on 11 December 2014, the first time that cross-border sectors have been implemented under a FAB framework. In the two cross-border sectors, operational 24h a day, the States have delegated the provision of air navigation services to the national ANSP of the partner country – demonstrating the level of trust and cooperation between the two FAB partners.
The national ANSPs BULATSA and ROMATSA have therefore shared the provision of each of the air navigation services between them within the cross-border sectors. Above FL 245, air traffic services, communication services and surveillance services are provided by the cross-border ANSP, whilst navigation, meteorological and aeronautical information services continue to be provided by the territorial ANSP.
The first CBS (Sector DF 1), controlled by BULATSA over Romanian territory allows safe and efficient circumnavigation of a new military area close to the border and optimises descent procedures into two Bulgarian airports (Burgas and Varna). The second CBS (Sector DF 2), controlled by ROMATSA over Bulgarian territory, reduces transfer of control workload between ACCs, and increases controller’s ability to tactically control aircraft surrounding restricted areas. Both CBSs create more direct routes which have driven real savings in terms of distance flown.
The initiative has involved all DANUBE FAB stakeholders including the ANSPs, Militaries, NSAs and State Authorities on Transport. Through the experiences gained in establishing cross-border sectors, DANUBE FAB has developed a model approach to the aspects which need to be considered including: ensuring a sound legal basis for Air Navigation Services; reaching agreement on liability issues; determining a financial framework; and ensuring civil/military harmonisation.