Action should be taken to obtain a position report that affects separation how many minutes after the aircraft was estimated to pass the fix?

The requirement to obtain a position report that affects separation is set at five minutes after the aircraft is estimated to pass the fix. This timeframe allows air traffic controllers to ensure that they maintain safe separation between aircraft, particularly in areas where radar coverage may be limited or non-existent.

When an aircraft is estimated to pass a specific fix, the five-minute window is long enough to alert controllers to any potential issues should the aircraft not report as expected. By establishing this standard, it helps in proactive management of airspace and reduces the risk of loss of separation between aircraft, which is critical for maintaining safety in the national airspace system. Thus, the five-minute mark serves as a crucial benchmark in air traffic control procedures.