When using radar separation, what is the appropriate distance for aircraft separation from the edge of airspace when less than 40 miles from the radar?

In radar separation, maintaining an appropriate distance from the edge of the controlled airspace is crucial for safety and effective management of air traffic. When radar coverage is less than 40 miles, aircraft are typically required to be separated by a minimum of 1.5 miles from the edge of the airspace. This distance is essential to ensure that any potential inaccuracies in radar tracking or environmental factors do not lead to an infringement of the airspace, which could jeopardize the safety of all aircraft in the vicinity.

The rationale for this specific distance is rooted in the need to provide a buffer that accounts for both the limitations of radar equipment and the speed of aircraft. By keeping this separation distance, air traffic controllers can more effectively manage aircraft movements, reducing the risk of conflict as planes approach the boundary of the controlled airspace. This practice enhances overall safety and ensures a smoother flow of air traffic, particularly in busy airspaces or when operations are being conducted near the edges of such airspaces.