43. Vertical Separation Flashcards
As specified in MATS 1, under what conditions may an aircraft be instructed to climb or descend to a level previously occupied by another aircraft? Include any precautions.
Aircraft may be instructed to change level at a specified time, place or rate.
An aircraft may be instructed to climb or descend to a level previously occupied by another aircraft provided that:
1) vertical separation already exists;
2) the vacating aircraft is proceeding to a level that will maintain vertical separation; and either:
a) the controller observes that the vacating aircraft has left the level; or
b) the pilot has reported vacating the level.
If severe turbulence is known to exist, instructions shall be delayed until the vacating aircraft is known to be at, or through, another level separated by the required minimum.
Controllers shall exercise caution when instructing an aircraft to climb or descend to a previously occupied level. Consideration shall be given to the fact that aircraft may climb or descend at markedly different rates and, if necessary, additional measures such as specifying a maximum or minimum climb or descent rate for each aircraft shall be applied to ensure that the required separation is maintained. This is particularly relevant when the aircraft concerned are established in the same holding pattern.
Pilots in direct communication with each other may, with their concurrence, be instructed to maintain a specified vertical separation between aircraft during climb or descent.
