"Cleared To Land"

[flywithastick]

does this apply to uncontrolled airports as well??

I'd guess 91.111 (a) "no person may operate an aircraft so close to another aircraft as to create a hazard" would govern this situation. Anyone know differently?

As far as landing separation, 3000' would give you enough room to land 4 or 5 J-3's, but it may not be enough for a L-39. just have to look closely, think clearly and be very comfortable with what you're flying before thinking about landing with someone else on the runway.

and if so then it would be the pilot's responsibility...

There'd be no one in a tower to blame it on at a non-towered (uncontrolled) field!

 

[ATCER]

I'm not a tower controller but had some training so here goes...

Anytime you want info on ATC rules check out the 7110.65 ATC manaul. This is the bible for ATC. You can see a copy of it online here -

http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/ATC/

For same runway seperation see chapter 3 section 3-10-3.

http://www.faa.gov/atpubs/ATC/Chp3/atc0310.html#3-10-3

There are some nice diagrams with the above link.

Now for the clearance. The controller can clear you to land at anytime (as long as he/she feels they will have the required separation).

Many times a controller will anticipate seperation and issue the clearance to land. (see 3-10-6). Other times the controller may not be sure of the separation and hold off on it. They really are not supposed to withhold a clearance indefinitley but it does happen sometimes (not on purpose).

A note on separation errors. If the controler issues you a clearance that you follow and it leads to an error... it's the controllers error. If you deviate from a clearance or refuse a clearance it's your ticket... Also to note... if you are ever given a number to call by ATC... CALL. 99.9% of the time you will talk with someone and that will be the end of it. If you don't call your chances of being reported are about 100%.

Stay safe and if your curious about tower ops take a visit to one and chat with the controllers about this subject. About 5 months ago there was a Genot allowing tours of facilities again, all you need is to be a US citizen and make an appointment.