(1) ATM - Vectoring

Question 1

What is vectoring? (2)

Answer 1

• Provision of navigational guidance to aircraft in the form of specific headings, based on the use of an ATS surveillance system
• Shall be achieved by issuing specific headings to enable the aircraft to maintain the desired track

Question 2

Except when transfer of control is to be effected, aircraft shall not be vectored closer than… (4)

Answer 2

• 2.5nm
• 5nm - where the minimum permissible separation is greater
• A distance equivalent to one-half of the prescribed separation minimum, from the limit of the airspace for which the controller is responsible
• unless local arrangements have been made to ensure that separation will exist with aircraft operating in adjoining areas

Question 3

When can a flight be vectored into Uncontrolled airspace? (3)

Answer 3

• In an emergency
• Circumnavigate adverse meteorological conditions
• Pilot request

Question 4

What factors should be considered when initiating a turn by an ATCO? (5)

Answer 4

• Angle of turn (total change of heading)
• Time lag or delay in the turn being initiated by the pilot
• Drift caused by wind speed and direction
• Ground Speed
• Rate of turn

Question 5

When vectoring is completed, pilots shall be instructed to… (2)

Answer 5

• Resume their own navigation
• Given position information and appropriate instructions

Question 6

What reasons may an optimum route be extended? (5)

Answer 6

• To lose height
• To avoid weather or PE clutter
• To fit in the traffic sequence
• To avoid high ground, obstructions, other airspace, etc
• To provide a reasonable angle of closure to the final approach track

Question 7

Basic Radar Circuit diagram

Answer 7

Question 8

Basic Radar Circuit - Levels (Part 1) diagram

Answer 8

Question 9

Basic Radar Circuit - Levels (Part 2) diagram

Answer 9

Question 10

What shall an aircraft be enabled to do when given a final vector onto an ILS Localiser? (2)

Answer 10

• Be established on the final approach track prior to intercepting the specified or nominal glide path of the approach
• Intercept the ILS localiser course at an angle of 45°or less

Question 11

When should an aircraft be turned towards Final? (3)

Answer 11

• Start by calculating the point at which aircraft will commence descent on final approach (at 300 ft/mile)
• Allow 2 miles straight and level flight before commencing descent
• Work out position of 15-45 degree closing heading and base legs

Question 12

Level flight before final descent diagram

Answer 12

Question 13

What wind factors are present when vectoring an aircraft onto final? (2)

Answer 13

• Tailwind: Requires an early turn so that the aircraft is not carried through the centreline
• Headwind: The final turn on can be delayed