Changes to the NAIPS system and the flight planning form are scheduled to be implemented in the next couple of weeks.
NAIPS as such will be replaced by the new NAIPS Internet Service (NIS) and NAIPS for Windows (NfW) will be decommissioned. The upgrade also spells the end for the AIS/MET legacy system, which will be retired.
NIS will incorporate all the functions of NfW and the existing website, which will enable all users, not just those on Windows PCs, to access the system.
According to Airservices Australia, NIS will be an improved system in several ways, including:
1. Improved site navigation
The new interface includes a
new menu panel that will allow you to move easily from one area to the next
2. Groups
The concept of ‘Groups’ has
been introduced. Members in a group will be able to share stored Flight
Notifications and Briefings while retaining individual logon credentials. Users
will be able to create and manage groups themselves
3. Avfax
Avfax has been expanded to allow you to create
and store your own Custom Codes. A fax number is no longer required
4. Account management
You will be able to register
yourself and manage your accounts including changing passwords and details. A
forgotten password facility has been provided
5. Password security
Passwords will change to be a
minimum of seven characters and must contain a mixture of alphanumeric
characters. The Avfax PIN will be based on the first four (4) characters.
Existing users will still be able to access their accounts in the new
system.
Users will be able to upload their existing NfW files to NIS. These include Flight Notifications, SPFIB and Aircraft Profiles. Once uploaded, they will be stored on the NAIPS server and can be accessed from any computer using a standard browser.
Also set to change is the standard flight notification form.
The new forms will reflect changes mandated by the ICAO in order for automated traffic management systems (ATM) to use new technologies associated with Performance Based Navigation (PBN).
Operators will need to understand the changes to the descriptors used in the various equipment fields and the requirements to submit certain PBN data. In particular, changes to STS/ entries in Item 18 "Other Information" will be significant, for example, SARTIME.
The NAIPS upgrade to enable the new plan forms to be used is due to happen on November 10, 2012. The AIP for November will include amendments relating to the new system and CASA has produced a pocket guide.
As of November 15, only flight plans submitted on the new form will be accepted; all those in the old format will be rejected.
More information, the CASA pocket guide and the new flight plan forms are on the Airservices website here.