to a maximum of four aircraft at any one assigned altitude. Under instrument conditions,
a section of two aircraft is the maximum number authorized in any one flight.
Fixed-wing aircraft will normally have a minimum of 1,000 feet vertical separation which
may be reduced to 800 feet when inside 12 nm. Helicopters shall be separated by a
minimum of 500 feet vertically.
Approach Procedures
Different types of approaches have been developed for carriers based on aircraft
performance, characteristics, and the location from which an instrument approach will
commence. Shipboard controller must have a comprehensive knowledge of these
approaches in order to know what actions a pilot will take when they make an approach.
Approach Weather Minimums
The Commanding Officer of a carrier can modify the approach weather minimums for
their ship. Certain situations such as the decreased proficiency of a CATCC team or an
embarked air wing can dictate a change in these minimums. However, Table 11-12 lists
the absolute minimums authorized for carrier instrument approaches.
Aircraft Type
Type of Approach
Weather Minimums
(ceiling and visibility)
Jet
Nonprecision
600 feet and 1 1/4 miles
ICLS
300 feet and 3/4 mile
ICLS/ILM with SPN-46 monitor
200 feet and 1/2 mile
Mode I
As certified
Mode IA, II, IIT, III
200 feet and 1/2 mile
Turboprop
Nonprecision
400 feet and 1 mile
ICLS
300 feet and 3/4 mile
ICLS/ILM with SPN-46 monitor
200 feet and 1/2 mile
Mode II, IIT, III
200 feet and 1/2 mile
Helicopter
Nonprecision
300 feet and 3/4 mile
Mode III
200 feet and 1/2 mile
Table 11-12 -- Approach weather minimums
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