Expert Opinion
AINsight: Avoiding RNAV SIDs and STARs Gotchas
Climb and descend via clearances still tripping up pilots
ATC tower twilight
© Fotolia

In 2014, the FAA introduced new and revised air traffic procedures that included “climb via,” “descend via,” and speed adjustment clearances for pilots flying RNAV departures (SIDs) and arrivals (STARs). Remarkably, in the 10 years since, pilots continue to make mistakes complying with these ATC clearances. As a result, altitude (vertical), course (lateral), and speed deviations are often cited as the most common reasons for a pilot to submit a NASA ASRS or ASAP report.

Recognizing the complexities of these new procedures, NBAA’s Domestic Operations Committee has published “Pilot Briefing: Climb Via, Descend Via, Speed Adjustments,” which covers the nuances of each procedure and the subtle differences between procedures around the world, including the FAA, ICAO, and Nav Canada.

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Stuart “Kipp” Lau
Contributor - Safety
About the author

Pilot, safety expert, consultant, and aviation journalist Stuart “Kipp” Lau writes about flight safety and airmanship for AIN.

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