What is the lateral separation requirement for nonparticipating aircraft flying below FL600?

The lateral separation requirement for nonparticipating aircraft flying below FL600 is 3 miles. This requirement is in place to ensure safe separation between aircraft that are not communicating or actively engaged with air traffic control. Maintaining this distance helps to minimize the risk of collisions and enhances overall airspace safety.

For aircraft flying at lower altitudes, maintaining a lateral separation of 3 miles allows for an effective buffer in case of lateral deviations from flight paths, which is important when accounting for possible navigation errors or changes in flight dynamics. This regulation provides a standard distance that helps controllers manage air traffic efficiently, particularly when dealing with aircraft that may not be under their direct control.