Separation Distance Formula:
Definition: This calculator determines the required separation distance between a taxiway and nearby objects based on aircraft wing span and clearance requirements.
Purpose: It helps airport planners and engineers ensure safe aircraft operations by maintaining proper clearances.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The wing span is divided by 2 to get half-span, then added with clearance distance and wing tip clearance to determine total separation needed.
Details: Proper separation ensures aircraft can safely taxi without risk of collision with nearby objects or structures.
Tips: Enter the wing span, clearance distance, and wing tip clearance in meters. All values must be > 0. Results include ±5% margin.
Q1: Why is wing span divided by 2?
A: The division accounts for the fact that the aircraft centerline is midway between the wingtips.
Q2: What's a typical clearance distance?
A: This varies by aircraft type and airport regulations, typically ranging from 3-15 meters.
Q3: What factors affect wing tip clearance?
A: Aircraft steering performance, taxi speed, and pilot skill all influence required clearance.
Q4: How is this different from runway separation?
A: Taxiway separation typically requires less distance than runway separation due to lower speeds.
Q5: Why the ±5% margin?
A: This accounts for measurement variations and operational safety factors.