In this guide, we will take a deeper look at listening squawks, what they are, who they monitor and why, and of course, the appropriate listening squawks in Northern England.
Air law and ATC practices are the hallmark of modern aviation that keep pilots safe and efficient in the air. Pilots fly aircraft in controlled airspaces, each of which has its own set of rules and restrictions, but sometimes, they can come near an uncontrolled or restricted airspace. This is when they need to make themselves available on radar so that ATC can be informed of their presence and can track them.
The way they do this is by adjusting their listening squawks or frequency monitoring codes so that they are detectable on radar. These practices help pilots fly safely and follow all the SOPs and best practices of flying in their respective airspaces.
In this guide, we will take a deeper look at listening squawks, what they are, who they monitor and why, and of course, the appropriate listening squawks in Northern England.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LISTENING SQUAWK
Pilots communicate in the air via radio frequencies; these same frequencies make it possible for ATC to track aircraft in real time. Pilots can do this with the help of an onboard instrument called the transponder.
The transponder is a device that is designed to receive a very specific signal and to automatically transmit a specific reply. Transponders allow aircraft to remain “in touch” with the ground crew and communicate as needed.
A listening squawk is a published transponder code that pilots can set, especially when flying near but outside the boundaries of a controlled airspace. The pilot tunes into a nearby air traffic frequency without transmitting. This allows the ATC to track the aircraft on radar and confirm that the pilot is listening on the correct frequency.
It is important to note that setting the frequency to a nearby ATC does not mean that you have automatic clearance to enter a controlled airspace. It is only done so that the ATC can alert the pilot if they are about to infringe or have entered the airspace.
WHO MONITORS LISTENING SQUAWKS?
Listening squawks are an important part of operating an aircraft, especially around controlled airspaces.
Here are all the parties that should always monitor listening squawks:
Pilots flying VFR
Especially in the vicinity of controlled airspace, like near big airports or control zones, pilots willingly flying near, but not intending to enter or seek ATC service, must at all times set and monitor squawk codes as required. Squawk codes enable pilots to follow protocol and not unknowingly enter controlled airspaces.
General Aviation Pilots
Pilots who might be less familiar with controlled airspace boundaries should make it a best practice to always account for and monitor squawk codes whenever they intend to fly. These pilots can benefit from having an early warning from ATC if they are mistakenly about to infringe.
Areas with Published FMCs
Anyone flying in areas with Flight Management Computer systems (FMCs) must listen to the corresponding frequency so that even if they drift or misjudge their position, ATC can contact them in advance.
LISTENING SQUAWKS IN NORTHERN ENGLAND
Now that we have covered the basics of squawk codes and their importance, let's look at why these codes may matter and a few sample listening squawks around Northern England.
First, let's begin with why these codes matter:
Northern England Airspace
The control airspace around airports is already busy and complicated. If you look at Northern England and the sheer number of aircraft in the air at any given point, it becomes important to monitor squawks.
Busy airports like Manchester, Leeds, and Newcastle have lots of general aviation traffic. Having pilots use listening squawks gives ATC significantly better situational awareness since they can actively track aircraft in real time. This practice allows them to “catch” aircraft that might be getting too close to infringing before escalation, which can result in not only embarrassment but also heavy penalties and, in some cases, prosecution.
Accounting for Variables
The skies are full of variations that can be hard to track. Things like frequency airway, terminal arrival routes, weather deviations, or even navigational or human errors can lead to unintended consequences.
These conditions can, in rare circumstances, cause the pilot to unintentionally infringe on a restricted airspace. However, with listening squawks, which act as safety buffers, pilots can easily avoid problems and fly safely.
Keeping Everything Regulated
Squawk codes enable ATC to manage the orchestra in the sky. These codes help reduce the number and impact of infringements and enable pilots to safely operate aircraft without worrying about unintentionally entering airspaces.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, listening squawks have been statistically shown to be effective in helping pilots avoid unauthorised entry since pilots using listening squawks can get alerted way before they infringe.
Being Professional Pilots
Using squawks is not just a requirement but also shows professionalism on the pilot’s part. Using these codes showcases good airmanship, and even though these codes are not a legal shield, they may be favourable in safety reporting and investigations in the case of accidental infringement.
However, to build a strong case during investigation, pilots must show that they were using all reasonable tools, such as their FMC along with squawk codes, to avoid errors in the first place.
WHAT DO SQUAWK CODES LOOK LIKE? – SAMPLE CODES
If you have never seen squawk codes, then we have a list of sample codes that are commonly used around Northern England.
Here are some of the codes along with their corresponding frequencies that pilots need to set when needed:
- Newcastle - Squawk 3737, monitor 124.380 MHz
- Manchester - Squawk 7366, monitor 118.580 MHz (or sometimes cited as 118.575 MHz)
- Leeds / Bradford - Squawk 2677, monitor 134.580 MHz (or 134.575 MHz)
- Liverpool - Squawk 5060, monitor 119.855 MHz
- Edinburgh (not in “Northern England” but nearby north) — Squawk 0440, monitor 121.205 MHz
- Hawarden - Squawk 4607, monitor 120.055 MHz (especially for the surrounding area)
As mentioned above, it is important that pilots realise that a listening squawk does NOT give you clearance into controlled airspace but simply signals to ATC that you are tuned into their frequency and are listening to it for alerts.
As a best practice, pilots need to tune the ATC or radar frequency first to ensure that the radio is working and then set the FMC with Mode C (ALT) if the transponder supports it.
Furthermore, when leaving the area or when changing frequency, pilots should remember to deselect it or revert to 7000 for VFR so that the ATC remains updated. For example, when flying along the Manchester Low Level Route (LLR), pilots can use 7366 or 118.580 MHz or 5060/119.85 MHz for Liverpool. This is done to tune into the appropriate ATC that the pilot wants to “listen” to.
AIR LAW AND AIRSPACE
Airspaces are divided into several categories so that pilots can easily operate their aircraft safely in their respective and allowed airspace. Each airspace category has special requirements that every pilot needs to understand if they are to avoid penalties or worse, suspensions.
The airspaces are classified as: Classes A, B, C, D, and E.
These airspaces require ATC clearance, and failing to obtain clearance beforehand can land pilots in hot water since they can be penalised and, depending on the severity, even suspended.
Pilots must also consider the fact that there are also restricted or prohibited areas that are completely off-limits and are considered a no-fly zone. These can be, for example, over military buildings or areas occupied by the military.
Other important topics covered in Air Law include the importance of ensuring constant communication with respective ATC and having your aircraft monitored and alerted by using squawk codes.
As we have mentioned above, squawk codes form the foundation of the following regulations for all pilots, as they ensure that pilots always remain in their designated airspace without infringing on restricted ones.
AIRSPACE CLASSIFICATIONS IN THE UK
Airspaces are invisible borders or lines in the sky that designate how high and where pilots are allowed to fly in their particular type of aircraft. The UK follows the ICAO standard for airspace classes (A to G), with some modifications.
Each category has defined levels of control, separation, and communication requirements between aircraft and air traffic control:
Class A – Most Controlled
This airspace is for Commercial airliners and IFR traffic. Class A airspace is mostly above FL195 or Flight Level 19,500 feet. It is placed on busy airways around London and major airports.
Pilots willing to fly in this airspace will need to hold an Instrument Rating (IR), operate under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) only, and receive full ATC separation from all other aircraft.
An IR Rating and Instrument Flight Rules are required because flights in this airspace can take place after dark or in low-visibility conditions, such as during bad weather. Furthermore, Class A airspaces don’t permit VFR flights, so this airspace is highly regulated and only specific aircraft with special clearance can fly during specific times.
Class B – Not Used in the UK
Class B airspaces are not actively implemented in the UK Airspace. However, this airspace is reserved by ICAO for the highest level of control, where both IFR and VFR traffic receive full separation.
Class C – Rare in the UK
Like Class B, Class C is also seldom used and may be reserved for military activities. They are generally not for civilian operations, and Class Cs are not common in the UK airspace.
These airspaces are only put up occasionally and are usually used for military control zones.
Class C gets full separation from all aircraft, but only VFR flights are allowed. It is important to note that Class C airspace also overlaps with Class D, which is why they may often be confused, but they have specific requirements that set them apart.
Class D – Controlled but VFR-Friendly
Just like Class C, this class is also used for Control Zones or CTRs around regional airports. Class D airspace gets separated from IFR and VFR flights, and pilots must request and receive ATC clearance before entry.
Pilots are also required to always keep two-way communication and comply with instructions while flying in this airspace class.
Class E – Partially Controlled
This airspace is placed in Control Areas or CTAs that link lower airspace to larger controlled areas.
Pilots are required to take special clearance, upon which they receive full separation from other IFR traffic. Even though VFR flights do not require clearance, pilots are strongly encouraged to maintain two-way radio contact.
Class Es require that pilots keep Squawk transponder code 7000 and listen on relevant frequencies if not communicating.
Class F – No Longer Used in the UK
Class F was once used for UK airspace but is now considered to be deprecated. These airspaces were once historically used but are now generally phased out in favour of Class E or G.
Class G – Uncontrolled Airspace
Class G airspace is placed under controlled airspaces, especially in rural or low-density traffic areas.
Pilots are encouraged to fly as per IFR and VFR and do not require ATC clearance. For rural flights, pilots are responsible for their own separation and must maintain an altitude of below 3,000 feet, which is clear of clouds and in sight of the surface with 5 km visibility.
AIRSPACES FOR PRIVATE PILOTS
In a nutshell, private pilots are allowed to fly in airspace classes G, E and D.
All private pilots must follow the strict regulations for each airspace class and maintain full contact with ATC. The only airspace private pilots are not allowed to fly in is the Class A airspace, which is reserved for commercial activities.
All pilots must establish and maintain contact with the ATC and tune in to the appropriate squawk codes as needed when flying near controlled airspaces.
WHY CHOOSE SHERBURN AERO CLUB
If you wish to begin your career in aviation or wish to take to the skies as a hobby, Sherburn’s flight training school offers private and commercial licences, along with pilot medicals to ensure a smooth journey going forward.
Sherburn Aero Club, which has been operational since 1964, is the ideal place for most of your training and flying needs. It is one of the largest flying clubs in the North of England and also one of the largest in the country.
With a large fleet of new aircraft and an airfield refurbishment with new runways, hangars, and an extended clubhouse, we cater to brand-new flyers who have just started their journey to the skies, as well as seasoned flyers who have been operating aircraft for decades.
Sherburn offers a dedicated day-long Flight Radiotelephony Operator’s Licence (FRTOL) course for those wishing to get the certification, running on the first Sunday of every month.
For those who wish to experience the thrill of a flight for fun or to help fuel their aviation dreams, Sherburn offers experience flights for the newbie, as well as the veteran. The flight experience option is also available for people who wish to take to the skies for special occasions, even if they aren’t into aviation in the long run.
In addition to that, if you are looking for a hangarage for your own aircraft, need servicing or repairs, want to buy a new aircraft or aviation equipment, or are just looking to enjoy and watch the aircraft, Sherburn Aero Club is the place to be.
Call us at 01977 682 674, email us at flightdesk@sherburnaeroclub.com, or message us via our online contact form for more information on Private Pilot Licences, training requirements, licencing procedures, as well as experience flights and pilot training at Sherburn.
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