Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) PracticeTest

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) with our comprehensive test. Study with diverse and interactive exercises, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations to enhance proficiency and readiness for your examination.

Practice this question and more.

What is the standard longitudinal separation minima required between two IFR aircraft?

5 DME or 10 minutes
10 DME or 20 minutes
15 DME or 25 minutes
20 DME or 30 minutes

The correct answer is: 10 DME or 20 minutes

The standard longitudinal separation minima required between two IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) aircraft is typically 10 nautical miles (DME) or 20 minutes in time. This standard ensures that there is a safe distance and timeframe between aircraft to prevent any risk of collision, especially during ascent, descent, and en route flying. Using 10 DME as a measure allows air traffic controllers to maintain effective separation when aircraft are flying on similar routes. The time-based separation of 20 minutes is particularly important in scenarios where the ground speed of the aircraft may vary, providing a more flexible and reliable means to ensure safe spacing in controlled airspace. This combination of distance and time helps to mitigate the risks associated with air traffic congestion and enhances overall flight safety. The other options present varying amounts of distance and time, which do not align with the established standards for longitudinal separation in IFR operations.