44. Vertical Separation

Question 1

What are the vertical separation minima, as described in MATS 1?

Answer 1

Vertical separation exists when the vertical distance between aircraft is never less than the prescribed minimum. The vertical separation minima are:

1) Between aircraft flying subsonic:
a) up to FL290 apply 1000 feet;
b) above FL290 apply 2000 feet, except that between FL290 and FL410 inclusive, 1000 feet may be applied between RVSM approved aircraft operating in airspace designated as being notified for the application of this separation standard.

2) Between aircraft flying supersonic and between aircraft flying supersonic and aircraft flying subsonic:
a) up to FL450 apply 2000 feet;
b) above FL450 apply 4000 feet.