Aeronautical Information Circulars (AIC): Advisory & Administrative Notices
The Aeronautical Information Circular (AIC) is a vital component of the Malaysian Integrated Aeronautical Information Package. Unlike a NOTAM, which covers urgent operational changes, an AIC contains information of an explanatory or advisory nature. This includes long-term forecasts of major legislative changes, administrative matters, and technical advice that affects the safety or regularity of air navigation in Malaysia.
1. Understanding AIC Classifications
In accordance with ICAO Annex 15 standards, AICs in Malaysia are often color-coded to help pilots and operators quickly identify the nature of the information:
|
Color Code
|
Category
|
Description
|
|---|---|---|
|
Pink
|
Safety
|
Crucial information regarding flight safety and accident prevention.
|
|
Yellow
|
ATC / Operational
|
Updates related to Air Traffic Control procedures and operational facilities.
|
|
White
|
Administrative
|
General administrative notices, fee changes, and legislative forecasts.
|
|
Mauve
|
Danger Areas
|
Maps and information regarding danger areas or special exercise zones.
|
2. Essential AICs for 2026 Operations
As of March 2026, the following circulars are critical for all airspace users in the Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu Flight Information Regions (FIR):
- AIC 03/25 – AIS Publication Schedule: Provides the mandatory dates for 2026 AIRAC cycles. Adhering to this schedule is essential for any operator planning major changes to their aeronautical data.
- AIC 11/24 – Revision of RANS Charges: Outlines the current Route Air Navigation Service (RANS) fee structure applicable throughout 2026.
- AIC 04/22 – NOSAS Implementation: Details the mandatory “New Overflight/Landing Permit Application System” for all non-scheduled, non-commercial flights operating to and from Malaysia.
- AIC 21/05 – English Language Proficiency (ELP): The standing requirement for all flight crew and controllers to maintain ICAO English proficiency levels.
3. AICs and the Low-Altitude Economy
With the launch of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Concept of Operations in Q1 2026, new AICs are expected to be released regarding:
- Forecasts for eVTOL air corridor implementations.
- Administrative procedures for the registration of Vertiport infrastructure.
- Long-term updates on the transition to the Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Operations) Regulations.
4. How to Access and Use AICs
AICs are issued by the Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) division of CAAM. They are numbered consecutively by year (e.g., AIC 01/26).
- Verify Currency: Always check the “Checklist of AICs currently in force,” which is typically published as the final AIC of each year.
- Legal Weight: While advisory, failure to follow procedures outlined in an AIC (such as fee payments or permit application steps) can result in operational delays or the denial of flight clearances.
5. Official Resources & Reference Links
- eAIP Malaysia – AIC Archive: The official digital repository for all active circulars. Access eAIP Malaysia
- AIS Publication Schedule 2026: View Official AIC 03/25
- CAD 15 – Aeronautical Information Services: The directive governing how AICs are originated and distributed. Download CAD 15