UPDATE: The NOTAM was removed on 25.06.25

D0383/25 NOTAM 
Q) LGGG/FAXX/IV/NBO / A /000/999/3642N02429E 
A) LGML 
B) 2025-06-21 04:00 C) 2025-06-30 20:59 
E) IFR/VFR TRG FLIGHTS OR FLIGHTS FOR EXAMINATION 
PURPOSES NOT ACCEPTED WI MILOS ATZ.

Where does it specify that an AFIS airspace or aerodrome in Class G airspace, located remotely and not interfering with any TMA, with extremely light traffic consisting solely of less than 10 domestic ATRs daily, can arbitrarily refuse aircraft approaches? At Milos airport? We’ve completely lost the plot. Has the lady working at the tower giving out wind and QNH realized that she is there solely for that purpose and has no authority exercise control beyond that?

Some basic information

Even student pilots acknowledge the following, but authorities might find it useful to consider prior to granting such outrageous requests from regional AFISOs, who last season, also by NOTAM required a PPR 24 hours prior to entering the ATZ/CTR,  Another outrageous request that was canceled because it was not in accordance with regulations.

AFIS airspace provides informational support rather than control, ensuring safety at aerodromes with limited or no ATC coverage. Pilots must operate with increased situational awareness and rely on the information provided to manage separation and decision-making.

Purpose:

  • To provide essential flight information and alerting service to aircraft operating in and around an aerodrome, especially within the Aerodrome Traffic Zone (ATZ).

Airspace Classification:

  • AFIS is usually associated with Class G airspace (uncontrolled).
  • Within the ATZ, AFIS provides information — not clearances.

Role of AFIS Officer (AFISO):

  • Does not issue clearances like an ATC controller.
  • Provides traffic information, weather updates, runway status, and other relevant data to assist pilots in making safe decisions.
  • Coordinates with nearby ATC units if necessary (e.g., for flight plans, departures, or emergencies).

Pilot Responsibility:

  • Pilots remain fully responsible for separation from other traffic.
  • Must report positions and intentions when entering or operating within the AFIS area (usually the ATZ).

Specific note on AIP for LGML

AFIS is provided to MILOS airport at present.
Class D when air traffic control is provided to MILOS airport.
When AFIS is provided to MILOS airport, the airspace within the lateral and vertical limits of MILOS CTR is designated as RMZ and is classified as CLASS G.
Air Traffic Service provided is AFIS and unit providing service is MILOS INFORMATION.
Pilots shall establish radio contact and maintain continuous air-ground communication watch on the appropriate frequency in the RMZ MILOS INFORMATION.

Closing Class G Airspace is a Step Back for Aviation Training and Airspace Access

Has the HCAA management considered that restricting access to Class G airspace borders on misuse of authority? Which airport has ultimately been designated by the HCAA for IR training? The closest option now is Syros, located within an already saturated Athinai TMA. Has the management realized that this decision simply shifts the problem into controlled airspace, further exacerbating existing issues?

Are we truly placing the incompetence of individuals who bear no responsibility for separation or control above the principles of open airspace? Is the HCAA aware that as early as last year, Milos airport was already attempting to reject training flights, blatantly violating the regulatory framework by claiming it wouldn’t accept them? And now, is the Authority effectively endorsing what Milos AFISOs tried to impose unlawfully last year?

Is this really how we move forward as a country by closing down free airspace to accommodate the whims of individuals who were never accountable in the first place?