What type of separation should be applied to aircraft at or below 12,000'?

The appropriate separation for aircraft operating at or below 12,000 feet requires individual coordination. This is due to the fact that traffic patterns and flight operations at lower altitudes often involve a variety of factors, including the proximity of airports, the presence of obstacles, and the characteristics of different types of aircraft. Individual coordination allows air traffic controllers to maintain safe distances between aircraft based on real-time traffic conditions, pilot reports, and any changing circumstances that may arise.

In airspace management, especially at lower altitudes, relying solely on visual separation or established minimum spacing may not adequately account for the complexities of lower-level air traffic. Individual coordination enables controllers to apply their judgment and situational awareness to adapt to the dynamic nature of the environment, ensuring safety and efficiency in the airspace.

While visual separation may be applicable under specific conditions, and standard radar spacing is generally utilized at higher altitudes or in more structured airspace, the necessity for real-time communication and decision-making among controllers and pilots at or below 12,000 feet justifies the requirement for individual coordination.