(2) ATM - Visual Separation

Question 1

When can visual separation be used to separate aircraft, for IFR lights? (3)

Answer 1

• During a VMC climb or descent
• Reduced separation in the vicinity
• When an aircraft is executing a visual approach and has the preceding traffic in sight

Question 2

What is the criteria for VMC climb & descent? (6)

Answer 2

When so requested by an aircraft and provided it is agreed by the pilot of the other aircraft and so authorised by the appropriate ATS authority:

• An ATC unit may clear a controlled flight, including departing and arriving flights
• Operating in airspace Classes D and E
• Be in VMC
• During the hours of daylight
• Fly subject to maintaining own separation to one other aircraft
• Remaining in visual meteorological conditions

Question 3

If a controlled flight is cleared for a VMC climb & descent, what shall apply? (1)

Answer 3

• clearance shall be for a specified portion of the flight at or below 10,000ft, during climb or descent and subject to further restrictions as and when prescribed on the basis of regional air navigation agreements

Question 4

What shall an IFR flight be provided when there is a possibility that flight under visual meteorological conditions may become impracticable? (1)

Answer 4

Provided with alternative instructions to be complied with in the event that flight in visual meteorological conditions (VMC) cannot be maintained for the term of the clearance

Question 5

When may separation in the vicinity be reduced? (3)

Answer 5

1. Adequate separation can be provided by the aerodrome controller when each aircraft is continuously visible to this controller
2. Each aircraft is continuously visible to flight crews of the other aircraft concerned and the pilots thereof report that they can maintain their own separation
3. In the case of one aircraft following another, the flight crew of the succeeding aircraft reports that the other aircraft is in sight and separation can be maintained

Question 6

What conditions does an IFR flight need to be able to fly a visual approach? (3)

Answer 6

• Pilot can maintain visual reference to the terrain
• The reported ceiling is at or above the approved initial approach level for the aircraft so cleared
• Pilot reports at the level of the beginning of the initial approach segment or any time during the instrument approach procedure that the meteorological conditions are such that with reasonable assurance a visual approach and landing can be completed

Question 7

When may an IFR flight be issued a clearance for a visual approach? (2)

Answer 7

1. Requested by the flight crew
2. Initiated by the controller*

*In the latter case, the concurrence of
the flight crew shall be required

Question 8

When shall visual separation be provided? (3)

Answer 8

• Between an aircraft cleared to execute a visual approach and other arriving and departing traffic
• Radar or non-radar separation shall be maintained until the pilot of a succeeding aircraft reports having the preceding aircraft in sight
• The aircraft shall then be instructed to follow and maintain own separation from the preceding aircraft

Question 9

What visual separation can be provided when aircraft are both Heavy? (3)

Answer 9

• The preceding aircraft is of a heavier wake turbulence category than the following
• The distance between the aircraft is less than the appropriate wake turbulence minimum
• The controller shall issue a caution of possible wake turbulence