1. What is Wing Tip Clearance?

Definition: Wing tip clearance is the minimum distance required between an aircraft's wingtip and obstacles or other aircraft when taxiing or parked.

Purpose: Ensures safe aircraft movement on taxiways and aprons, preventing collisions and damage to aircraft.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Z \) — Wing Tip Clearance (meters)
• \( S \) — Separation Distance between runway and taxiway (meters)
• \( WS \) — Wing Span of the aircraft (meters)
• \( C \) — Required Clearance Distance (meters)

Explanation: The formula calculates the available clearance by subtracting the aircraft's wingspan and required safety distance from the total separation between runway and taxiway.

3. Importance of Wing Tip Clearance

Details: Proper wing tip clearance is critical for airport safety, preventing ground collisions, and ensuring efficient aircraft movement in congested areas.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the separation distance between runway and taxiway, aircraft wing span, required clearance distance, and tolerance percentage (default ±5%). All values must be ≥ 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a typical wing tip clearance requirement?
A: For large aircraft, minimum clearance is typically 4.5-7.5 meters depending on airport classification.

Q2: Why include a tolerance percentage?
A: The tolerance accounts for variations in pilot skill, weather conditions, and aircraft performance.

Q3: How is separation distance determined?
A: By airport design standards considering aircraft mix, taxiway geometry, and operational requirements.

Q4: What affects required clearance distance?
A: Aircraft type, taxi speed, pavement conditions, and presence of visual aids or guidance systems.

Q5: How does this relate to ICAO standards?
A: The calculation aligns with ICAO Annex 14 recommendations for runway-taxiway separation.

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