Using Independent Data Collections to Extablish Altitude-Keeping Performance Characteristics of Aircraft Types

Aircraft capability and performance are major factors to consider in establishing lateral, vertical, and longitudinal separation standards for air traffic control. This paper addresses how vertical aircraft performance can be assessed by analyzing data from sources such as airworthiness certifications, height-measuring radar data collections, manufacturer bench tests, and related aircraft programs. Such an assessment is necessary before certifying authorities will approve aircraft types or individual airframes for operational use in the new separation standard airspace.