What minimum separation is required from an A380 or AN225 when operating below 250 knots?

When operating below 250 knots, the minimum separation required from an A380 or AN225 is 8 miles. This requirement is primarily due to the wake turbulence these large aircraft generate, which can have significant effects on smaller aircraft nearby.

Wake turbulence can cause disturbances in the air that lead to difficulties in maintaining control, especially for lighter aircraft. As a result, air traffic control establishes specific separation distances to mitigate the potential risks associated with wake turbulence. The larger the aircraft, like the A380 or AN225, the greater the wake they produce, necessitating greater separation to ensure safety during operations.

Other options do not meet the required guidelines; thus, they are not appropriate for ensuring safe operations in proximity to these large aircraft at lower speeds. The 8-mile separation standard provides a balance between efficient air traffic management and safety considerations, especially when dealing with large airframes operating at slower speeds.