scope:

Scope of Document

This document focuses on NAS operations that build on the use of surveillance information. The primary role of surveillance is in separation assurance; thus, much of this document discusses concepts for separation assurance and how improved surveillance information provides operational benefits. Weather detection and data dissemination, while forms of surveillance, are treated here only to the level the information would affect operations. General flight planning and management services, including search and rescue, also involve surveillance information exchange, although the requirements are generally less demanding than those for separation assurance. Flight planning and management services are also outlined, but in lesser depth.

This document focuses on the operational use of surveillance, not the technical or architectural aspects of providing the information to those needing it. As such, this document includes needs for the human-computer interface and for tools that substantially build on surveillance. This document does not address which surveillance technologies can meet any particular need. A basic assumption is that equipage of new capabilities is voluntary, based on the delivery of new or improved user benefits. The intent of this concept is to document these needs in a technology-independent manner.

Because future concepts for separation assurance involve the potential adjustment in roles and responsibilities, with implied needs for surveillance to support these new operations, this document also addresses separation responsibility and the roles of pilots and controllers. In addition, functional dependencies and needed information are indicated. Many of the capabilities envisioned require analysis and validation before implementation can be accomplished and benefits accrued. Validation activities such as Safe Flight 21 are critical to move the vision expressed here to operational reality.

intended Use: