This supplement presents the decision by Isavia ANS to discontinue the requirement for RCL messages in the Icelandic control area (BIRD CTA) from 19th of March 2026.
Isavia ANS implemented Oceanic Clearance Removal in the spring of 2024. After the implementation, pilots were still required to send an RCL message before entering the NAT Region. This led to misunderstandings, where some flight crew believed that, after sending an RCL, they could change levels without an ATC clearance, in line with the level included in the RCL message.
Therefore, BIRD CTA will discontinue the requirement for RCL messages.
The Flight Data System at Reykjavik ACC/OAC will be updated to send a new automated response to any RCL received; RCL NOT REQUIRED BY BIRD. Same phraseology will be used at Iceland Radio.
The aircraft shall not change Flight Level unless it is cleared for a Flight Level change by ATC.
AIP ICELAND, NAT Doc 007 and NAT OCR OPS Bulletin will be updated on the 19th of March 2026.
Therefore, BIRD CTA will discontinue the requirement for RCL messages.
The Flight Data System at Reykjavik ACC/OAC will be updated to send a new automated response to any RCL received; RCL NOT REQUIRED BY BIRD. Same phraseology will be used at Iceland Radio.
The aircraft shall not change Flight Level unless it is cleared for a Flight Level change by ATC.
AIP ICELAND, NAT Doc 007 and NAT OCR OPS Bulletin will be updated on the 19th of March 2026.
The following may be contacted for information or to provide feedback:
Netfang / Email:
procedures@isavia.is
AIP Supplement cancelled:
NIL
NIL
NOTAM incorporated in this AIC:
NIL
ENDIR / END