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May 2008: As a result of the increase in traffic movements at Dublin Airport to 48 movements per hour and also of several recent incidents, including a serious Airprox, Dublin ATC will no longer be in a position to issue conditional clearances to helicopter traffic wishing to cross the active runway.

All helicopters crossing the active runway will be given a direct crossing clearance dependant on traffic flow, however, helicopters are likely to be subject to a delay in a clearance being issued which may in some circumstances be substantial. It would be advisable therefore for Owners/Operators/Pilots to review the need to cross the active runway at Dublin Airport and consider planning an alternative routing, where practical, that does not involve a runway crossing.

Helicopter Owners/Operators/Pilots are also advised that a formal review of the airspace and helicopter routings within the Greater Dublin Area will shortly be initiated which will result in a formal Helicopter Route structure being implemented. The target date for the results of this process is likely to be in the third quarter of 2008.

As a part of this review the Operating Standards Department of the Irish Aviation Authority will be reviewing the situation with regard to all single engine aircraft operating over the congested areas of the city with a view to possible implementation of some form of restriction on the grounds of public interest and safety.

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