Collision Avoidance Procedures

Collision avoidance is one of the most critical aspects of safe flight operations. By maintaining situational awareness, adhering to right-of-way rules, and using modern technologies, pilots can significantly reduce the risk of mid-air and ground collisions.

1. General Principles of Collision Avoidance

The following principles are essential for avoiding collisions during all phases of flight:

• See and Avoid: Pilots are required to visually scan for other aircraft to prevent collisions, even when operating under ATC control.
• Situational Awareness: Always be aware of your position, altitude, and the location of other traffic.
• Adhere to Right-of-Way Rules: Follow the FAA’s right-of-way regulations as outlined in FAR 91.113.
• Use Technology: Leverage tools such as ADS-B, TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System), and onboard avionics for traffic awareness.

2. Visual Scanning Techniques

A proper visual scanning technique is critical for detecting other aircraft. Effective scanning involves dividing the sky into manageable sectors and focusing on each for a brief moment.

2.1 Effective Scanning Method

• Sector Scan: Divide the sky into 10-degree segments and scan each segment for 1–2 seconds.
• Focus on Movement: Moving objects are easier to spot than stationary ones. Look for relative motion against the background.
• Regular Intervals: Continuously repeat the scanning process to ensure no aircraft are missed.

2.2 Blind Spots

Be aware of blind spots caused by the aircraft’s structure, such as the wings or cabin. To mitigate blind spots:

• Regularly bank the aircraft slightly to clear areas obscured by the wings.
• Move your head to see around structural obstructions.

3. Right-of-Way Rules

The FAA provides clear right-of-way rules to prevent airspace conflicts. These rules must be followed at all times.

3.1 General Right-of-Way Rules

• Aircraft in Distress: An aircraft in distress has the right-of-way over all other air traffic.
• Converging Aircraft: When two aircraft are converging at the same altitude, the aircraft to the other’s right has the right-of-way.
• Overtaking Aircraft: The overtaking aircraft must pass to the right and give way to the aircraft being overtaken.
• Landing Aircraft: An aircraft on final approach has the right-of-way over aircraft on the ground or in the air. If two aircraft are approaching to land, the lower aircraft has the right-of-way.

3.2 Special Cases

• Gliders and Balloons: Gliders, balloons, and other non-powered aircraft have the right-of-way over powered aircraft.
• Head-On Approach: Both aircraft should alter course to the right to avoid a collision.

4. Collision Avoidance on the Ground

Ground collisions can occur during taxi operations if proper precautions are not taken. Follow these procedures to avoid ground conflicts:

4.1 Taxi Procedures

• Maintain Situational Awareness: Use airport diagrams and signage to navigate taxiways and avoid runway incursions.
• Follow ATC Instructions: Always read back taxi clearances and verify hold short instructions.
• Monitor Blind Spots: Use external scanning and, if necessary, request progressive taxi instructions from ATC.

4.2 Lights and Signals

• Taxi Lights: Use taxi lights to increase visibility to other aircraft and ground vehicles.
• Position Lights: Ensure position lights are on during all ground operations, especially at night or during low visibility.

5. Technology for Collision Avoidance

Modern avionics and traffic systems provide additional tools for collision avoidance. Pilots should familiarize themselves with these technologies:

5.1 ADS-B (Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast)

• Purpose: ADS-B provides real-time traffic information, including the location of nearby aircraft.
• Usage: Ensure ADS-B is operational and monitor traffic displays for potential conflicts.

5.2 TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System)

• Purpose: TCAS alerts pilots to nearby aircraft and provides resolution advisories for avoiding conflicts.
• Usage: Respond immediately to TCAS advisories to maintain safe separation.

6. Instructor-Led Collision Avoidance Training

Collision avoidance training is a key component of flight instruction. Instructors simulate scenarios to teach students how to identify and avoid traffic conflicts.

6.1 Practice Scenarios

• Simulated converging traffic at the same altitude.
• Simulated overtaking situations to practice right-of-way rules.
• Simulated blind spot scenarios to teach proper clearing techniques.

6.2 Post-Flight Review

After practice flights, review collision avoidance techniques and discuss areas for improvement.

7. Conclusion

Collision avoidance requires a combination of visual scanning, adherence to right-of-way rules, and the use of technology. By practicing these techniques regularly and maintaining situational awareness, pilots can significantly reduce the risk of collisions both in the air and on the ground. Always prioritize safety and communication to ensure smooth and conflict-free operations.