Bozeman (BZN) has experienced numerous Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) events involving aircraft arriving, departing, and transitioning the airspace. Close proximity events resulting in a TCAS Resolution Alert (RA) pose a significant risk to aviation safety. Because TCAS RAs take precedence over ATC instructions, pilots are expected to promptly follow the RA, even if the resulting maneuver is unplanned and may create additional conflicts..

Due to the mountainous terrain (Bridger Range to the east/northeast and Gallatin Range to the south), aircraft around Bozeman are funneled through a southwest-to-northeast oriented, low-lying valley. Aircraft operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) are required to adhere strictly to both standard instrument departure and instrument arrival procedures. Unfortunately, close calls continue to occur when VFR traffic operates within the arrival and departure corridors, bringing them dangerously close to IFR jet aircraft flying at high closure rates.

In an effort to reduce frequency congestion and simplify instructions for VFR aircraft departing BZN—or transitioning nearby—departure routes and associated VFR waypoints have been developed. These waypoints are in the GPS database and can be programmed into Flight Management Systems (FMS) and GPS units. Pilots are encouraged to reference the relevant aeronautical charts for additional guidance and to better visualize these routes.

Application of these departure procedures, or any action taken by Air Traffic Control (ATC) to avoid traffic conflicts, does not relieve pilots of their responsibilities to see and avoid other aircraft while operating under Visual Flight Rules (CFR 91.113). Heightened awareness and vigilance among all pilots—whether operating IFR or VFR—are essential in mitigating risk and ensuring safe operations in the Bozeman airspace.

To assist ATC with enhancing the safety of operations near BZN, pilots should:

• Familiarize themselves with the airspace surrounding Bozeman, including nearby terrain.
• Familiarize themselves with the airport layout and information prior to flight, including the new VFR waypoints.
• Actively listen to ATC instructions and clearances to ensure full understanding.
• Read back instructions and clearances accurately to confirm receipt.

Ask ATC if there is any doubt about the VFR route assigned, or if you need clarification on any instruction.