DABS (Daily Airspace Bulletin Switzerland)

As you know, consulting the DABS is an essential part of flight preparation. But do you know in which cases there is no entry on the map or what an exclamation mark in front of a restriction in the text section means? If not, then it’s high time to take a closer look at DABS.

DABS: Reduce to the max
The DABS graphically displays the current airspace status based on the NOTAM publication, as stated in the VFR Manual, GEN 1-0-4. The map thus shows the flight restriction areas (R areas), danger areas (D areas), no-fly areas (P areas) and the airspace activations of TEMPO TMA/CTR. Incidentally, military firing areas are only indicated if firing takes place at over 250 m above ground level. It is important to note that not all spatially locatable restrictions are shown on the map, but are listed in the text section. These include, for example, parachuting and gliding activities, air displays or restrictions that affect the entire territory or parts of it. The heading above the chart therefore also reads: “Activities not shown on the DABS Chart Side:”.

Attention with exclamation marks
The exclamation mark in front of an entry means that it is a change compared to the previous DABS version, but always in the form of a “reduction” (reduction, cancellation) such as a later activation. There will never be an “increase” during the course of the day, i.e. an extension in terms of time or space. The exception is in the event of “imminent danger”, which would be the case in the event of unforeseen and urgent airspace closures due to an accident or disaster. The 4 p.m. map can also include military night flights and RPAS (remotely piloted aircraft systems) for the coming night.

Check before flight
It is therefore very important to always consult the currently valid DABS shortly before the flight (update of the first version (from the previous day 16:00 LT) at 09:00, 13:00 and 16:00 LT).

DABS does not replace NOTAMs
As already mentioned, DABS contains important but not all NOTAM publications. This is because NOTAMs also contain airport information, changes to procedures, information on obstacles and navigation aids, etc., which are not mentioned in the DABS. In addition, NOTAMs are also updated between DABS publication times (the DABS reflects the status at the time of publication). Therefore, the NOTAMs must always be consulted in addition to the DABS.

We wish you a safe flight and happy landings!

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