What are the basic dimensions of VHF airways?

What are the basic dimensions of VHF airways?

• A. 3 NM miles either side, 5.0 degrees, 50 NM
• B. 4 NM miles either side, 5.0 degrees, 50.8 NM
• C. 5 NM miles either side, 10 degrees, 60 NM
• D. 6 NM miles either side, 5.0 degrees, 70 NM

Answer: (B)

The correct dimensions of VHF airways are indeed described by the second choice: 4 nautical miles either side, an angle of 5.0 degrees, and a length of 50.8 nautical miles. These dimensions define the protected airspace around a VHF airway, which is essential for ensuring safe separation between aircraft operating in that corridor. The lateral limit of 4 nautical miles on either side of the centerline of the airway provides sufficient airspace for aircraft to navigate safely, while the 5.0-degree divergence ensures that the airway is sufficiently wide to accommodate slight navigation errors. The 50.8 nautical mile length reflects the segment length typical for route definition and en-route navigation within the air traffic control system. Understanding these parameters is critical for pilots and air traffic controllers, as they help maintain safe vertical and lateral separation between aircraft and ensure the efficient flow of air traffic within controlled airspace.

The correct dimensions of VHF airways are indeed described by the second choice: 4 nautical miles either side, an angle of 5.0 degrees, and a length of 50.8 nautical miles. These dimensions define the protected airspace around a VHF airway, which is essential for ensuring safe separation between aircraft operating in that corridor.

The lateral limit of 4 nautical miles on either side of the centerline of the airway provides sufficient airspace for aircraft to navigate safely, while the 5.0-degree divergence ensures that the airway is sufficiently wide to accommodate slight navigation errors. The 50.8 nautical mile length reflects the segment length typical for route definition and en-route navigation within the air traffic control system.

Understanding these parameters is critical for pilots and air traffic controllers, as they help maintain safe vertical and lateral separation between aircraft and ensure the efficient flow of air traffic within controlled airspace.