Separation Standards

Question 1

In Class D airspace what are the separation requirements? (3 items)

Answer 1

–Separate IFR flights from other IFR flights.

–Pass traffic information to IFR and SVFR flights on VFR flights and give traffic avoidance advice when requested.

–Pass traffic information to VFR flights on all other flights and provide traffic avoidance assistance when requested.

Question 2

When can the separation standards minima be increased? (3 items)

Answer 2

The separation standards are minima and shall be increased when:

• -when requested by the pilot;
• -a controller considers it necessary;
• -directed by the CAA.

Question 3

When may the standard separation minima be reduced in the vicinity of aerodromes? (3 items)

Answer 3

In the vicinity of aerodromes the standard separation minim may be reduced if:

• -adequate separation can be provided by the aerodrome controller when each aircraft is continuously visible to this controller; or
• -each aircraft is continuously visible to the pilots of other aircraft concerned and the pilots report that they can maintain their own separation; or
• -when one aircraft is following another the pilot of the succeeding aircraft reports that he has the other aircraft in sight and can maintain own separation.

Question 4

How can standard separation be altered when a Search and Rescue Escort is underway?

Answer 4

Standard separation may be reduced when a SAR aircraft is escorting an aircraft in emergency. A minimum is not laid down in UK FIRs and separation may be reduced to that which can be maintained visually or with airborne radar.

Question 5

Describe the controllers actions if he is faced with a situation where two or more aircraft are separated by less than the prescribed minima.

Answer 5

He is to use every means at his disposal to obtain the required minimum with the least possible delay and when considered practicable pass traffic information if an ATS surveillance service is being provided, otherwise pass essential traffic information.

Question 6

What information should be included when essential traffic information is passed to an aircraft?

Answer 6

• -Direction of flight of conflicting aircraft;
• -Type of conflicting aircraft;
• -Cruising level of conflicting aircraft and ETAs as appropriate;
• -Any alternative clearance.