Departure Separation

Ever wondered why some airplanes take off one right after another and you’re still sitting there thinking, “What the heck?” Don’t worry. You (probably) weren’t forgotten.

Elim Hawkins

Tuesday, August 20, 2024 at 05:34 AM ET

Verified

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Key Takeaways:

ATC prioritizes aircraft separation and safety above "first come, first serve," which is the primary reason for perceived departure delays.
Controllers categorize departures (VFR/VFR, IFR/VFR, IFR/IFR) and apply specific separation rules based on aircraft type, speed, and flight rules to balance safety and efficiency.
To expedite traffic, controllers use strategies such as prioritizing faster aircraft, timing IFR releases, and considering wake turbulence.
Additional efficiency tools include utilizing multiple runways, soliciting intersection departures, employing LUAW (Line Up And Wait), and using "fan headings" for IFR traffic, with pilot flexibility often aiding the process.

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Most of us have experienced taxing out, running up (if needed), then a long wait for Tower to clear you. If you’re IFR, you may think, “What is taking so long?” But what if you’re flying a C182 instead of the C560? “Now all the jets are going ahead! What the heck?!?” (I’ve actually heard this on frequency.)

Throw in a couple VFRs, and you start to wonder even more. All of these jets are going and you’re chilling in your Skyhawk wondering how far the Hobbs will go before getting your turn. I’ve personally been there, done that, got the shirt, and got it cut. With everything going up in price, I will do everything in my power to get planes out as fast as possible, regardless of whether they are IFR or VFR.