PUBLIC NOTICE: Aerial survey and mapping for acquisition of electronic terrain and obstacle data (eTOD) for Entebbe has commenced

This is to inform the general public that effective April 7, 2020, Uganda Civil Aviation Authority will conduct an Aerial Photography and Mapping Survey in an area of 65 kilometres (approximately 13,280 square kilometres) in the vicinity of Entebbe International Airport aimed at acquiring electronic Terrain and Obstacle Data (eTOD).

The three months exercise, which is to be undertaken by Ramani Geosystems Ltd, of Nairobi, Kenya will cover 14 districts, including islands and water areas. Four blocks of Uganda’s airspace will be specifically covered in Masaka, Gomba, Butambala, Mpigi, Wakiso, Kiboga, Nakaseke, Luwero, Kampala, Mukono, Buikwe, Kayunga, Buvuma, and Kalangala Districts.

The on-going suspension of commercial passenger operations, which has subsequently led to reduction in the number of flights at Entebbe International Airport, provides an opportunity to carry out the aerial survey with minimal disruption. Three people aboard the survey aircraft will collect terrain and obstacle data for three to five hours daily, according to the aerial survey plan that will be dependent on prevailing weather conditions.

The eTOD data to be obtained will facilitate the development of the following airport and air navigation applications:

1. Setting up eTOD and Aerodrome Mapping databases necessary for the update of aeronautical charts and aeronautical publications required for airport certification;
2. Update of on-board databases of flight management systems, airport ground movement and control systems, and ground proximity warning systems;
3. Development of instrument flight procedures;
4. Determination of maximum take-off weights;
5. Determination of contingency procedures for use in the event of an emergency;
6. Airport planning and land use studies;
7. Provision of geodetic control for engineering projects.

The purpose of this communication is to inform the communities concerned and the general public not to be alarmed when they see a Cessna C208B aircraft hovering over the airspace. The aerial survey that is being carried out is a critical regulatory requirement to facilitate Entebbe International Airport operations as well as improve the safety and security of flight movement within the entire airspace of Uganda.

                                                           MANAGEMENT