AP/ATM/7 WP/23 26/02/04

International Civil Aviation Organization UNDP/ICAO Regional Project RLA/98/003 Transition to the CNS/ATM Systems in the CAR and SAM Regions Seventh Meeting/Workshop of ATM authorities and planners for RVSM Implementation in the CAR/SAM Regions (AP/ATM/7 RVSM) (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, 10 to 12 March 2004) Agenda Item 5: Other matters Implementation of composite separation (Presented by Colombia) Summary Proposal for the implementation of a composite vertical/horizontal separation within the BOGOTA and BARRANQUILLA FIRs, as a tool to expedite the harmonious implementation in the CAR/SAM and NAM Regions. Reference documents: ICAO Annex 11 Document 9426 Planning of ATS Services

1.

Introduction

1.1 Composite separation is one of several methods of separation that air traffic control units may apply to obtain an ensure adequate spacing between aircraft. It consists of a combination of vertical separation and horizontal separations and uses minima for each which may be lower than, but not less than half of that used for each of the combined elements when applied individually. Composite separation is a means of improving airspace utilization. (ICAO Doc 9426) 1.2 Annex 11 foresees two types of composite separation: lateral/vertical composite separation and longitudinal/vertical composite separation.

AP/ATM/7 WP/23 -22. Analysis

2.1 Composite separation is applied in controlled airspace when traffic density warrants the introduction of a parallel or additional track system. It is less restrictive than the lateral separation based on navigation performance specifications (MNPS). 2.2 Composite separation requires the certainty that aircraft, upon entering the route system, fly at the appropriate level and follow the respective track. The end points of every route structure where the composite separation is applied will have radar coverage. 2.3 Radar failure

2.3.1 In non-radar composite separation is applied for controlling aircraft navigation performance, the following factors should be taken into account: a. There must be adequate air-ground communications; b. The location and adequacy of ground navaids, especialy VOR/DME, to help to properly locate aircraft entering the system (see graph); c. Route length; d. Weather conditions along the routes; e. Types of aircraft normally using the routes. 2.3.2 2.4 The proposals for the introduction of composite separation are subject to regional agreement. Application

2.4.1 States and operators should be advised duly in advance about any plans to apply composite separation, and about generally applied rules and procedures for unforeseen in-flight cases. 2.4.2 ICAO stipulates that the relevant ATS authorities responsible for providing air traffic services in the adjacent airspace should be consulted when: 1) traffic is to cross from one airspace to an adjacent one; 2) the distance from the routes to the common boundary of adjacent airspaces is less than the separation minima applicable according to the circumstances. 3. Conclusion

3.1 The Colombian proposal consists of aplying a vertical/horizontal composite separation only in continental airspace under radar control, making sure that transfer to adjacent FIRs is done with the separations specified in the letters of agreement, facilitating the application of tactical operations in RVSM airspace. 3.2 Furthermore, in the event that OFFSET procedures were to be applied in continental airspace, if a 2 NM offset to the right is required from all aircraft, a composite separation of 1,000 ft and 4 miles could be achieved for aircraft flying in opposite directions, thus meeting ICAO criteria in this respect.

AP/ATM/7 WP/23 -33.3 In case the reduced separation is suspended due to turbulence or aircraft system problems, composite separation would help controllers resolve problems and ensure the target level of safety. 4. 4.1 report: Suggested action The meeting is invited to consider the inclusion of the following conclusion in the final That CAR/SAM member States take note of the intention of Colombia to implement the vertical/horizontal composite separation within the airspace under its jurisdiction as a tool for a harmonious RVSM implementation, and, furthermore, assess its possible impact on letters of agreement, allowing for a regional agreement so that Colombia may establish this separation as of 20 January 2005.

Conclusion AP/ATM/7/XX