CASA said yesterday that it would proceed with the preferred controlled airspace design for Ballina after consultation feedback supported the proposal.
The new design will create a Class D CTR with Class D steps up to the base of the Class C at 4500 feet, which is expected to be in operation no later than 27 November this year.
"Based on the feedback, we will proceed with the preferred airspace design," CASA said. "It has been included in the Airspace Change Proposal which has been submitted for approval.
"Airservices Australia is responsible for the final flight path design that sits within the preferred airspace architecture ..."
CASA initially consulted on the design in July last year, feedback to which resulted in a second design released for consultation in November last year. It is the second design that CASA will now adopt.
Despite calls in the feedback to create VFR lanes to assist transiting aircraft, in particularly recreational aircraft, OAR elected not to include those in the final architecture.
"We have addressed feedback about VFR transit and clearances through controlled airspace by minimising the extent of controlled airspace in accordance with the design principles," OAR said. "This maximises the Class G (uncontrolled) airspace available.
"We will also develop uncomplicated procedures with the airspace users and the air navigation service provider to facilitate VFR transit though the airspace and be incorporated into the Aeronautical Information Package (AIP)."
According to CASA, responses to the consultation were generally in favour of the new design, with VFR transit lanes and access for RAAus-registered aircraft the main objections. However, only 25 people responded to the consultation.
CASA said in December last year that RAAus pilots would be granted access to Classes C and D airspace, which will by default grant access to Ballina.