Part 2: The Aeronautical Information Publication and Its Purpose

You've been asked to memorize and reference the ECQB syllabus, and for good reason. But where do pilots find the truly current, official information about procedures, frequencies, runways, and regulations for a particular aerodrome? The answer is the Aeronautical Information Publication, or AIP.

The AIP is the official, nationally published compendium of aeronautical information for your country. In Austria, it's published by Austro Control. In Germany, by the DFS. In France, by the DSAC. Every European nation has one. The AIP is not a guide or a textbook—it is the law, in a sense. It contains the official, current procedures for every controlled and uncontrolled aerodrome, every navigational aid, every piece of radiotelephony phraseology unique to that country, and every regulation or procedure that governs VFR and IFR operations.

The AIP is updated constantly. Amendments are published as separate sheets so that you can update your paper copy, or you simply access the digital version. The digital version is always current. Many pilots today don't print the AIP at all; they access it online on a tablet before every flight.

The structure of the AIP is standardized across ICAO. It usually comprises multiple volumes:

AIP General — Common procedures, abbreviations, symbols, airspace definitions, and general information applicable across the country.

AIP Aerodromes — A section for each aerodrome with controlled or significant airspace. For each aerodrome, you'll find runway details, radio frequencies, approach procedures, NOTAMs, opening times, and any special procedures.

AIP En Route — Navigation aids, airways, holding patterns, and procedures for flying from one aerodrome to another.

AIP Changing Notices (AIC) — The AIC is especially important for radiotelephony. This is where valid, current RT procedures are published when they change or need clarification. If Austro Control decides to change phraseology for a particular procedure, or if a new frequency becomes active, it's announced in the AIC. Your exam might include questions on where to find this information: AIC is the correct answer.