A report on the so-called unicom trial has been sent to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) which will in turn provide “direction”for Airservices Australia, a self-funded air navigation services provider that reports to federal transport minister Anthony Albanese.

Airservices Australia obtained an exemption from CASA regulations to run the trial at Dubbo, Wagga Wagga, Port Macquarie, Hervey Bay and Olympic Dam.

It describes its placement of radio operators at the airports as part of “trying to find a middle position” between the air safety options of “see and be seen” and manned control towers.

Airservices Australia says it gave ample and early warning of the conclusion of the trial that was not permitted an extension.

Politicians and commentators have criticised the withdrawal of the operators, insisting a disaster is looming due to the range of air traffic frequenting the sky over regional and rural airports.

Internet comments resulting from reports on the trial include those of pilots content with the “see and be seen” radio procedures they utilise when in the air.

The cost, effectiveness and impact on radio frequency congestion of the unicom system are also being debated by the aviation industry.

Yesterday, Airservices Australia public affairs manager Rob Walker said the trial in Dubbo had allowed pilots to make contact with a radio operator to determine the likes of weather and aerodrome conditions, along with other users of the air space.

Feedback had been sought from “anyone who uses the airport” including pilots, airlines and airport owner Dubbo City Council.

Data gathered during the trial across the five airports had been compiled and forwarded to CASA.

“In general terms we feel that on the whole it was successful,” Mr Walker said of the trial.

Airservices Australia has promised to inform the public when CASA makes its “determination”.

kim.bartley@ruralpress.com