scope:

Scope and target audience

This manual aims to describe all the important aspects of ACAS and the implications for:

a) aviation regulators;

b) aircraft operating agencies;

c) flight crew;

d) maintenance engineers;

e) air navigation service providers (ANSPs);

f) air traffic controllers; and

g) persons conducting safety studies.

Content

This chapter provides an overview of the purpose, scope and content of the document as well as a brief description of ACAS and its objectives.

• Chapter 2 outlines major implementation aspects of the ACAS;
• Chapter 3 describes in detail the ACAS equipment, functions and capabilities;
• Chapter 4 outlines the relationship between ACAS performance, safety and airspace configuration;
• Chapter 5 stresses the importance of the proper operation of the ACAS system by flight crews and provides pilot training guidelines;
• Chapter 6 recommends that controllers follow an ACAS training programme and provides recommendations for the content of that training;
• Chapter 7 discusses the issues related to the adaptation of ACAS to situations that go beyond its original intended use. In particular the use of ACAS by the military, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are addressed;
• Chapter 8 provides an overview of the safety and electromagnetic assessments required for ACAS; Chapter 9 explains the need for ACAS monitoring and then describes practical ways of conducting it;
• Chapter 10 explains the need for transponder monitoring and then describes ACAS-related problems that should be detected;
• Chapter 11 provides details of how ACAS certification and operational approvals are to be granted. Also guidelines are given for military systems that have an ACAS function.

PURPOSE 

The purpose of this manual is to provide guidance on technical and operational issues applicable to the Airborne Collision Avoidance System (ACAS), as specified in Annex 10 - Aeronautical Telecommunications, Volume IV - Surveillance and Collision Avoidance Systems, Chapter 4. Unless otherwise stated in the manual, the use of the term "ACAS" refers to ACAS II. 

The material provided in this manual has generally been effective in addressing ACAS implementation issues. Nevertheless, individual administrations may find modified or alternative methods more appropriate due to local situations or available resources.