Separation between departing aircrafts on the same track
 

Hi everybody,

I would like to know which minimum separation generally is used between two aircrafts departing the same runway on the same track (in Germany).
In ICAO Doc 4444 I only could find the following statements

"5.6.2 Two minutes are required between take-offs when the preceding aircraft is 74 km/h (40 kt) or more faster than the following aircraft and both aircraft will follow the same track"

(what if the preceding aircraft isn't 40kt or more faster?)

"5.6.1 One-minute separation is required if aircraft are to fly on tracks diverging by at least 45 degrees immediately after take-off so that lateral separation is provided (see Figure 5-35)."

I would be really thankful for any answer!

Greets and have a great weekend
Marcel

You may get a lot of answers as the separations may be laid down in local instructions. Where I worked there was no speed requirement laid down for 2 minute separation unless the leading aircraft was much slower.

This is a basic Procedural separation standard. Where radar is used this departure separation can be a lot less, so that the radar separation minimum of 3 nam between a/c is achieved.

That is 3 nautical miles.

Moons ago at Heathrow a "fast" following a "slow" could mean five minutes. The answer was to ring London Radar to get the delay reduced. I did so one day and the reply was "Frighten me on 125.8"! Sadly, that controller is now way above the contrails. GB Jack....

You mention same track so 5.6.1 will not apply.

It depends on whether there is a surveillance service been provided after departure.

Wake turbulence may be a factor too.

Not enough information to comment beyond that.