NAV CANADA today began to provide air traffic control service at Red Deer Regional Airport, CYQF, located about six nautical miles south southwest of the Alberta city.

NAV CANADA explains the move was made based on its recognition that air traffic at YQF had been steadily rising prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, effective November 5, 2020, airport control service will be provided 16 hours per day from 0600h to 2200h as follows:

• Airport control services will be offered for 16 hours a day, Class D Control Zone, 5 NM to 6000 ASL, from 06:00h to 22:00h;
• Airport advisory services will be offered for the remaining 8 hours from 22:00h to 06:00h; and
• Weather observation services will continue to be offered 24 hours a day.

NAV CANADA states pilots should be prepared for the type of service being offered when they are arriving and departing at Red Deer CYQF, as well as understanding their responsibilities. If a pilot is arriving or departing when airport control services are offered, NAV CANADA explains he or she must follow the directions of the air traffic controllers, and all related procedures.

When airport advisory services are offered, including Vehicle Control Service, NAV CANADA explains pilots must use the information provided by the flight service specialists to make safe and responsible decisions as they arrive and depart the airport.

(Photo: Red Deer Regional Airport)