Terminal Area Separation Standards: Historical Development, Current Standards, and Processes for Change,

Abstract : This paper gives an overview and summary of the separation requirements for air traffic control in the U.S. National Airspace System with emphasis on those relevant to terminal landing operations. These requirements are documented in the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA' s) Air Traffic Control Order 711 O.65J, as amended, and various national and local Orders. These requirements are also addressed in the Aeronautical Information Manual, the International Civil Aviation Organization's Standards and Recommended Practices, and the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). The purpose of this paper is to assist those people involved with the introduction of new technologies and procedures in the terminal airspace by providing them with an understanding of the separation requirements, the need for those requirements, and the processes used to change the requirements.