How many miles of longitudinal separation are required when using the 22-knot rule?

The 22-knot rule is a guideline used in air traffic control to establish adequate longitudinal separation between aircraft flying at similar altitudes. When one aircraft is overtaking another, the rule specifies that a certain distance must be maintained to ensure safety.

According to FAA guidelines, the required longitudinal separation when utilizing the 22-knot rule is 10 miles. This distance ensures that if an aircraft is flying faster than another, there is enough space to prevent any potential wake turbulence or conflict as the faster aircraft overtakes the slower one. The standard of 10 miles helps controllers manage aircraft spacing effectively, especially in busy airspace, allowing for a buffer that accommodates variable speeds and prevents unsafe proximity.

This knowledge is critical for air traffic control operations, as ensuring appropriate separation is vital to maintaining safety in the airspace system.