6.5 Vertical Seperation

6.5.1 Vertical separation is obtained by requiring aircraft using prescribed altimeter setting procedures to operate at levels expressed in terms of flight levels or altitude in accordance with the provisions in radar and aerodrome control procedures.

VERTICAL SEPARATION MINIMA

6.5.2 The vertical separation exists when the vertical distance between aircraft is never less than the prescribed minimum.

6.5.3 The vertical separation minima are:

a) NON-RVSM airspace

i) 1000ft up to FL290; and

ii) 2000ft above FL290 or

b) RVSM airspace

i) 1000ft up to FL410; and

ii) 2000ft above FL410

See Aviation Book -> 2. General Section -> 2.7 Semi-Circular Rule

CHANGING LEVELS

6.5.4 Aircraft may be instructed to change level at a specified time, place or rate.

6.5.5 An aircraft may be cleared to a level previously occupied by another aircraft after the latter has reported vacating it, except when:

a) Severe turbulence is known to exist; or

b) The higher aircraft is effecting a cruise climb; or

c) The difference in aircraft performance is such that less than the applicable separation minimum may result; or

d) The aircraft concerned are established in the same holding pattern.

e) In these cases such clearance shall be withheld until the aircraft vacating the level has reported at or passing another level separated by the required minimum.

f) Pilots in direct communication with each other may, with their concurrence, be instructed to maintain a specified separation between aircraft during climb or descent.

ASSIGNMENT OF CRUISING LEVELS

6.5.6 An aircraft at a cruising level shall normally have priority over other aircraft desiring that cruising level. When two or more aircraft are at the same cruising level, the preceding aircraft shall normally have priority.