8-3-2. SEPARATION METHODS

8-3-2. SEPARATION METHODS

1. For the purpose of application of longitudinal separation, the terms same track must be considered identical to same course, reciprocal tracks must be considered identical to reciprocal courses, and crossing tracks, must be considered identical to crossing courses.

   NOTE: Refer to paragraph 1-2-2, Course Definitions.

2. Separate aircraft longitudinally in accordance with the following:
   1. Same track. Ensure that the estimated spacing between aircraft is not less than the applicable minimum required. (See FIG 8-3-1.)

      

   2. Crossing tracks. Ensure that the estimated spacing at the point of intersection is not less than the applicable minimum required. (See FIG 8-3-2.)

      

   3. Reciprocal tracks:
      1. (a) Ensure that aircraft are vertically separated for a time interval equal to the applicable minimum required before and after the aircraft are estimated to pass. (See FIG 8-3-3.)

         

      2. (b) Vertical separation may be discontinued after one of the following conditions is met:
         1. (1) Both aircraft have reported passing a significant point and the aircraft are separated by at least the applicable minimum required for the same direction longitudinal spacing; (See FIG 8-3-4.) or

            

         2. (2) Both aircraft have reported passing ground-based NAVAIDs or DME fixes indicating that they have passed each other.