7.6 Compression and Recovery

7.6.1 General

Compression occurs when spacing between aircraft reduces below the desired or required minimum.

Compression increases workload and may result in loss of separation or unstable approaches.

The Approach Controller shall identify and correct compression early.

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7.6.2 Causes of Compression

Compression may result from:

• Late or ineffective speed control
• Excessive or poorly planned vectoring
• Differences in aircraft performance
• Pilot non-compliance with instructions

The Approach Controller shall anticipate these factors.

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7.6.3 Detection

The Approach Controller shall:

• Monitor spacing continuously
• Identify reducing spacing trends early
• Anticipate compression before it becomes critical

Early detection is essential to effective recovery.

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7.6.4 Recovery Techniques

The Approach Controller shall apply one or more of the following:

(a) Speed Control

• Reduce speed of leading aircraft
• Maintain or increase speed of trailing aircraft
• Apply adjustments early

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(b) Vectoring

• Extend downwind or base leg
• Adjust track to increase spacing
• Avoid excessive or unnecessary manoeuvring

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(c) Sequence Adjustment

• Re-sequence aircraft where necessary
• Delay aircraft prior to final approach

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(d) Go-Around (if required)

• Issue a go-around when spacing cannot be safely restored
• Protect the missed approach path
• Re-establish sequencing

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7.6.5 Stability Considerations

The Approach Controller shall ensure that:

• Recovery actions support stable approaches
• Late corrections on final are avoided
• Aircraft are not forced into unstable profiles

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7.6.6 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

• Delay corrective action once compression is identified
• Rely on late adjustments close to final approach
• Allow spacing to reduce below minimum separation
• Compromise safety in an attempt to maintain efficiency

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7.6.7 Key Principle

Compression shall be managed proactively.

The Approach Controller shall:

• Detect early
• Act immediately
• Restore spacing before final approach

Early correction prevents major disruption and ensures safe, stable operations.

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