How should separation be applied to aircraft from non-standard formation flights?

The correct application of separation to aircraft involved in non-standard formation flights requires applying normal separation to the perimeter of the formation. This approach considers the overall space that a formation of aircraft occupies rather than treating individual aircraft as separate entities.

When aircraft are flying in formation, they operate as a cohesive group, which can alter their effective separation as perceived in the airspace. By applying separation to the perimeter of the formation, air traffic control ensures that there is adequate spacing to accommodate the entire formation, thus ensuring safety and maintaining efficient air traffic flow. This method takes into account the size and breadth of the formation, which is critical for managing the risks of converging traffic and preventing conflicts.

Other approaches, such as relying on a fixed distance regardless of the formation’s size or minimizing separation, could lead to safety risks. Similarly, focusing solely on altitude changes neglects the horizontal aspect of separation needed for safe flight operations. This comprehensive understanding of formation size is vital for effective air traffic management and ensures that safety protocols are followed.