ENR 1.9 AIR TRAFFIC FLOW MANAGEMENT (ATFM)

1 ATFM SERVICE

1.1 Introduction
The States of the ICAO Asia/Pacific Region within the Bay of Bengal, South Asia and Pakistan airspace have implemented an automated Air Traffic Flow Management (ATFM) service under the auspices of the ICAO Bay of Bengal ATS Coordination Group – ATFM Task Force.
1.2 Provision of ATFM services
1.2.1
ATFM services are provided by Aeronautical Radio of Thailand LTD (AEROTHAI) from the Bangkok Air Traffic Flow Management Unit (ATFMU) at Bangkok ACC. ATFM services will be limited to calculation, promulgation and management of mandatory Allocated Wheels Up Time (AWUT) and Kabul FIR flight level, ATS route and entry fix time for each affected flight.
1.2.2
Viet Nam ATC retains responsibility for the tactical management of flights that are subject to ATFM. Viet Nam ATC will manage non-ATFM compliant flights using delayed push back and start clearances, non-preferred routes and/or flight levels, enroute holding and/or diversion around Kabul FIR.
1.2.3
The ATFMU utilises the automated web based Bay of Bengal Cooperative ATFM System (BOBCAT) system in meeting its ATFM responsibilities. These responsibilities will be managed in coordination with aircraft operators and Viet Nam ATC in the Ha Noi FIR and Ho Chi Minh FIR concerned.
1.2.4
The ATFMU operates on a 24 hour basis and is responsible for westbound flights entering the Kabul FIR at specified times, flight levels and ATS routes in accordance with paragraph 1.3 hereunder. The objectives of these ATFM services are to:
  1. Reduce ground and en-route delays;
  2. Maximise capacity and optimize the flow of air traffic within the area;
  3. Provide an informed choice of routing and flight level selection;
  4. Alleviate unplanned in-flight re-routing and technical stops; and
  5. Assist regional Air Navigation Service Providers (ANSPs) in planning for and managing future workload in the light of forecast increased traffic flows within the area.
1.3 ATFM affected ATS routes, flight levels and applicable Hours

1.3.1
All westbound flights intending to enter the Kabul FIR between 2000 to 2359 (UTC) daily on ATS routes:
  1. A466, L750, N644 from FL 280 to FL 390 inclusive;and
  2. G792/V390from FL 310 to FL 390 inclusive; and
  3. B466 between SERKA and PAROD from FL 310 to FL 390 inclussive shall comply with the ATFM procedures including mandatory requirement for all flights to obtain a specific ATFM slot allocation from Bangkok ATFMU.
1.3.2
Flights who plan to enter Kabul FIR without an AWUT and entry slot (comprising flight level, ATS route and entry fix time) will be accommodated only after flights with slots have been processed. Such flights should expect delayed push back and start clearances, non-preferred routes and/or flight levels, enroute holding and/or diversion around Kabul FIR.
1.3.3
In order to ensure availability of slots for westbound departures from designated airports in northern India and Pakistan, departures from these airports are given priority for FL 280 in the slot allocation. This does not preclude these flights from requesting higher flight level with initial slot request.
1.4 Flights exempted from BOBCAT ATFM
1.4.1
The following flights are exempted from this ATFM procedure:
  1. Humanitarian or medical flights;
  2. State aircraft with Head of State on board.
1.4.2
Flights exempted from ATFM procedures shall indicate the exemption in their flight plan (Field 18 – STS-BOB ATFM EXMP).
1.4.3
Viet Nam ARO(s) shall forward the flight plan information to the ATFMU at AFTN address VTBBZDZX.
1.5 Mandatory AWUT and KABUL FIR slot allocation

1.5.1
Affected flights shall obtain the mandatory AWUT, Kabul FIR entry time, flight level and ATS route from the BOBCAT system. The AWUT and Kabul slot allocation will enable ANSPs to tactically control westbound flights transiting the Kabul FIR at specified times by assigning minimum spacing requirements at established gateway fix points in the vicinity of the eastern boundary of the Kabul FIR.
1.5.2
The application, calculation and distribution of AWUT and Kabul FIR entry fix slot allocations will be managed via Internet access to the BOBCAT system in accordance with the ATFM operating procedures in paragraph 1.6.
1.6 BOBCAT Operating Procedures
1.6.1
All affected flights are required to submit slot requests to the BOBCAT system by logging onto https://www.bobcat.aero between 0001 to 1200 (UTC) on day of flight and completing the electronic templates provided.
1.6.2
Affected aircraft operators who do not have dedicated BOBCAT username/password access should complete the application form provided and fax it to the ATFMU as soon as possible.
1.6.3 Slot Allocation Process
1.6.3.1 The slot allocation process is divided into 3 phases, namely the slot request submission, initial slot allocation and finally slot distribution to aircraft operators and ANSPs.
Slot Request Submission
1.6.3.2 Slot requests including preferred ATS route, flight level and Maximum Acceptable Delay (MAD) should be lodged between 0001 to 1200 (UTC) on the day of flight. Slot requests may subsequently be amended prior to 1200 (UTC), which is the cut-off time. Aircraft operators are encouraged to submit additional slot request options in case their first choice is not available. This may include variations to ATS route, flight level and MAD.
1.6.3.3 Slot requests shall be for flight parameters that are able to be met by the flight. For example, flights requesting a slot at FL 390 must be able to transit Kabul FIR at FL 390. Flights subsequently unable to meet slot parameters (flight level, ATS route or entry fix time) should expect non-preferred routes and/or flight levels, enroute holding and/or diversion around Kabul FIR.
1.6.3.4 As BOBCAT will allocate FL 280 on a priority basis to facilitate departures from northern India and Pakistan underneath over-flying traffic, flights departing these airports are encouraged to include FL 280 as at least one slot request preference.
1.6.3.5 Flights that were not allocated a slot in the initial slot allocation, are not satisfied with the allocated slot or did not submit a slot request should select slots from the listing of remaining unallocated slots available immediately after slot distribution has been completed.

Slot Allocation and Distribution

1.6.3.6 Slot allocation will commence at the cut-off time at 1200 (UTC). BOBCAT will process and generate the slot allocation based on the information submitted in the slot requests. Notification of slot allocation will be made not later than 1230 (UTC) via the ATFMU website. Alternative arrangements for notification of slot distribution (e.g. E-mail, Fax, Telephone) should be coordinated with the ATFMU.
1.6.3.7 After the slot allocation has been published at https://www.bobcat.aero, aircraft operators can:
  1. Use the slot allocation result for ATS flight planning purposes.
  2. Cancel the allocated slot; and/or
  3. Change slot allocation to another available slot in the published list of unallocated slots.
1.6.3.8 Noi Bai ARO, Noi Bai TWR, Ha Noi ACC, Tan Son Nhat ARO, Tan Son Nhat TWR, Ho Chi Minh ACC can also view the slot allocation results at https://www.bobcat.aero.
1.6.4 Submission of ATS flight plan
1.6.4.1 
Once aircraft operators are in receipt of the slot allocation, they shall submit the ATS flight plan using the time, ATS route and flight level parameters of the BOBCAT allocated slot.
1.6.4.2 
In addition to normal AFTN addressees, operators should also address flight plan (FPL) and related ATS messages (e.g. DLA, CNL, CHG) to the ATFMU via AFTN address VTBBZDZX for all flights that have submitted a slot request.
1.7 Aircraft Operator/Pilot-in-command and ANSP Responsibilities
1.7.1 Aircraft Operator/Pilot-in-command
1.7.1.1 
In accordance with ICAO PANS-ATM provisions, it is the responsibility of the Pilot-in-command (PIC) and the aircraft operator to ensure that the aircraft is ready to taxi in time to meet any required departure time. PIC shall be kept informed by their operators of the AWUT, Kabul FIR entry fix times and flight parameters (route/level) nominated by BOBCAT.
1.7.1.2 
The PIC, in collaboration with ATC, shall arrange take-off as close as possible to the AWUT in order to meet the Kabul FIR slot time.
1.7.2 ANSPs
1.7.2.1 
In accordance with ICAO PANS-ATM provisions, flights with an ATFM slot allocation should be given priority for take off to facilitate compliance with AWUT.
1.7.2.2 
AWUT shall be included as part of the initial ATC clearance. In collaboration with PIC, Noi Bai ARO, Noi Bai TWR, Noi Bai APP, Ha Noi ACC, Tan Son Nhat ARO, Tan Son Nhat TWR, Tan Son Nhat APP, Ho Chi Minh ACC shall ensure that every opportunity and assistance is granted to a flight to meet AWUT and allocated entry fix times at Kabul FIR.
1.8 Coordination between Aircraft Operator/Pilot-in-command, ANSPS and BANGKOK ATFMU
1.8.1
The PIC shall include the AWUT in the initial ATC clearance request.
1.8.2
PIC shall adjust cruise flight to comply with slot parameters at the Kabul FIR entry fix, requesting appropriate ATC clearances including speed variations in accordance with published AIP requirements.
1.8.3
Prior to departure, in circumstances where it becomes obvious that the Kabul slot time will not be met, a new slot allocation should be obtained as soon as possible and via the most expeditious means (e.g. via coordination between flight dispatcher, PIC, Noi Bai ARO, Tan Son Nhat ARO and Bangkok ATFMU). Early advice that the Kabul slot time will be missed also enables the slots so vacated to be efficiently reassigned to other flights.
1.8.4
Prior to departure, in the event that the aircraft is unable to meet the Kabul slot time, when requested by the PIC after the aircraft has left the gate, Viet Nam ATC shall assist the PIC to coordinate with the ATFMU for a revised slot allocation.
1.8.5
The ATFMU (VTBBZDZX) shall be included in the list of AFTN addressees for NOTAMs regarding any planned activities that may affect slot availability (e.g. reservation of airspace/ closure of airspace, non-availability of routes, etc).
1.8.6
The ATFMU (VTBBZDZX) shall be included in the list of AFTN addressees for ATS messages (e.g. FPL, DEP, DLA, CHG, CNL) relating to flights subject to ATFM procedures.
1.8.7
A missed slot results in dramatically increased coordination workload for ATC and PIC and should be avoided. To minimize coordination workload in obtaining a revised slot allocation, the following procedures are recommended:
  1. If the flight is still at the gate, coordination should take place via operators/flight dispatchers to ATFMU;
  2. If the flight has left the gate, coordination to ATFMU may also take place via the ATS unit presently communicating with the flight.
1.9 Basis Computer Requirement
Aircraft operators and Noi Bai ARO, Noi Bai TWR, Ha Noi ACC, Tan Son Nhat ARO, Tan Son Nhat TWR, Ho Chi Minh ACC are required to have computer equipment capable of connecting to the BOBCAT website https://www.bobcat.aero via the internet and satisfying the following minimum technical requirements:
  1. Processor: minimum CPU clock speed of 150 MHz;
  2. Operating System: Any that operates one of the following web browsers (i.e. Windows 2000/XP, Linux, Unix, or Mac OS);
  3. Web Browser: Internet Explorer 5.5 or newer, Mozilla 1.0 or newer, Mozilla Firefox 1.0 or newer, Netscape 7 or newer;
  4. RAM: 64 MB or larger (depending on operating system);
  5. Hard Disk Space: Minimum of 500 MB or larger (depending on operating system);
  6. Monitor Display Resolution: Minimum of 800 x 600 pixels; and
  7. Internet Connection: 56 Kbps Modem or faster.
1.10 ATFM Users Handbook
1.10.1
Supporting documentation, including detailed information in respect of the ATFM operations described above and other pertinent information has been included in the Bay of Bengal and South Asia ATFM Handbook (the “ATFM Users Handbook”), available at https://www.bobcat.aero
1.10.2
ANSPs and aircraft operators shall ensure that they are conversant with and able to apply the relevant procedures described in the ATFM Users Handbook.
1.11 Contingency procedures
1.11.1
In the event that an aircraft operator or Noi Bai ARO, Noi Bai TWR, Ha Noi ACC, Tan Son Nhat ARO, Tan Son Nhat TWR, Ho Chi Minh ACC is unable to access the ATFMU website, the ATFMU shall be contacted via the alternative means (telephone, fax, AFTN) described in paragraph 1.13.
1.11.2
Contingency procedures for submission of slot request, including activation of Contingency Slot Request Templates (CSRT), are included in the ATFM Users Handbook.
1.11.3
In the event of system failure of BOBCAT, ATFMU shall notify all parties concerned and advise that ATFM slot allocation procedures are suspended. In this event, all parties concerned will revert to the existing ATM procedures as applicable outside the daily period of ATFM metering.
1.12 ATFM system fault reporting
1.12.1
An ATFM system fault is defined as a significant occurrence affecting an ATS unit, an aircraft operator or ATFMU resulting from the application of ATFM procedures.
1.12.2
Aircraft operators and Noi Bai ARO, Noi Bai TWR, Ha Noi ACC, Tan Son Nhat ARO, Tan Son Nhat TWR, Ho Chi Minh ACC experiencing an ATFM system fault should complete an ATFM System Fault Report Form from the ATFM Users Handbook and forward it to the ATFMU at the address indicated on the form. The ATFMU will analyze all reports, make recommendations/suggestions as appropriate and provide feed back to the parties concerned to enable remedial action.
1.13 Address of Air Traffic Flow Management Unit (ATFMU)
The ATFMU may be contacted as follows:
Bangkok ATFMU
Tel:(66-2) 287-8024, (66-2) 287-8025,
(66-2) 2-287-8026
Fax:(66-2) 287-8027, (66-2) 287-8026
AFS:VTBBZDZX
Email:atfmu@bobcat.aero
Web:https://www.bobcat.aero

2 LEVEL 2 MULTI-NODAL ATFM NETWORK

2.1 Introduction
2.1.1

Vietnam’s participant as a Level 2 ATFM Node on Asia/Pacific Distributed Multi-Nodal ATFM Network based on Ground Delay Program (GDP) through issuance of Calculated Take-off Time (CTOT).

2.1.2
The Distributed Multi-Nodal ATFM Network concept involves each ANSP leading and operating an independent, virtual ATFM node supported by interconnected information sharing framework. The flow of air traffic into constrained/congested resource (airspace or airport) will be managed based on a common set of agreed ATFM measures and principles among participating stakeholders. The primary ATFM measure used in this initiative is Ground Delay Program (GDP), where demand and capacity are balanced through adjustments in aircraft Calculated Landing Time (CLDT) and Calculated Take-Off Time (CTOT) distributed to aircraft prior to departures.
2.1.3
2.2 An ATFM measure may be triggered when a Level 3 ANSPs determine that there will be a demand capacity imbalance situation at a particular ATM resource. The Level 3 ANSP will provide advance notification of an ATFM measure to be initiated and their effective period through the publication of ATFM Daily Plan (ADP) and / or NOTAM. The ADP will be issued via e-mail to stakeholders’ key point of contact.
2.2 Provision of ATFM in Viet Nam
2.2.1
The Distributed Multi-Nodal ATFM Network adopts a tiered participation level approach for ATFM Nodes. Level 3 ATFM Nodes are those capable to generate, deliver, receive and comply with CTOTs, and include China, Hong Kong (China), Singapore, Thailand and Cambodia.
2.2.2
Vietnam is participating in ATFM Network as a Level 2 ATFM Node (starting from 23 April 2020) is to support the management of departures in compliance to CTOTs issued by Level 3 ATFM Nodes. In Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh FIR, Vietnam Air Traffic Flow Management Center (ATFMC) is responsible for implementing ATFM and monitoring the ATFM measures implementation.
2.2.3
The following International Airports in Vietnam will be involved in Level 2 ATFM Node by way of receiving and facilitating the affected airlines compliance of CTOT:
Number
International Airport
Implementation
1
Noi Bai
Official
2
Da Nang
Official
3
Tan Son Nhat
Official
4
Cat Bi
Trial
5
Cam Ranh
OfficialTrial
6
Phu Quoc
OfficialTrial
2.2.4 Exemption of flights from ATFM measure
  • Aircraft in emergency situation; including aircraft which is subject to unlawful interference;
  • Aircraft in search and rescue missions or fire fighting aircraft;
  • Aircraft in VIP flights;
  • Aircraft is carrying patient at risk;
  • Other aircraft specifically identified by appropriate authorities.
2.2.5 Airspace user requirements
With effect from 23 April 2020 at 0000 UTC, flights departing from the airports specified in 2.2.3 to Level 3 ATFM Node airports and airspace, shall adhere to the following for accurate demand prediction and effective ATFM measure management:
2.2.5.1 
File FPLs at least 3 hours and 30 minutes before EOBT.
2.2.5.2 
Submit CHG/DLA messages when EOBT changes by more than 15 minutes to submitted FPL.
2.2.5.3 
Prompt submission of CNL messages.
2.2.5.4 
Actively cooperation in CDM (web conference, chatting..) to provide input on ATFM measures and monitor ATFM Daily Plan (ADP) for ATFM alerts and receive ATFM information for operational planning. On the day of operations, when possible, Level 3 ATFMU will host web conferences to discuss the ATFM operations. Following the briefing, the conference room will remain open as a Help Desk to provide assistance and facilitate CTOT management for stakeholders. Consult the ADP or contact Vietnam ATFMC for information on the web conference address.
2.2.5.5 
CTOTs will be distributed to stakeholders via web portal, e-mail, AFTN messages and telephone. Specific instructions to access CTOT information will be provided by Level 3 ATFM Units. If there is a problem accessing the information, contact Vietnam ATFMC for assistance.
2.2.5.6 
ATC shall provide best assistance to ensure flights departing from the airports specified in 2.2.3 can depart within CTOT compliance window. Flight crew, for their part, shall plan their flights to be ready for pushback at an appropriate time such as take-off time will be within CTOT compliance window.
2.2.5.7 
For flights with CTOTs departing from Noi Bai, Da Nang, Tan Son Nhat, Cat Bi, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc International Airports:
a. Inform ATFMC of CTOT compliance right after CTOT receipt and plan the affected flights such that will be ready for start-up/pushback at appropriate time to comply with CTOT at the runway, considering taxi-out time.
b. Request for revisions to CTOTs/ATFM slots when flights are expected to be unable to comply with the assigned CTOTs by contacting Vietnam ATFMC as soon as practicable. Vietnam ATFMC will coordinate with the ATFM unit initiating the ATFM measure on behalf of the Airspace Users accordingly.
c. Provide feedback and information on ATFM operations in the Post-Ops Analysis effort. (The template of Post-Ops Analysis is provided in the website specified in 2.3.1).
2.3 Further information
2.3.1
All stakeholders should access the website: https://atfm.vn/en/project/Level-2-ATFM-Procedures-In-Vietnam for further information.
2.3.2
For queries, please timely contact Viet Nam ATFMC via the following address:
Vietnam Air Traffic Flow Management Center (ATFMC)
Tel:(84-24) 38 271 513 ext 8643
Fax:(84-24) 32 127 893
AFS:VVVVZGZX/ AMHS: VVVVZDZX
Email:atfmu@vatm.vn