Overview
- Each Atlantic crossing is assigned an oceanic track that maintains safe separation from other aircraft in every direction.
- Tracks are placed to align with diversion options such as Iceland or Greenland, Scotland or Ireland, Newfoundland and the Maritimes, and the Azores on southerly routes.
- Captain Steve Schreiber said flights are typically within about two hours of a suitable alternate at any point in the crossing.
- The region near 30°W is usually the farthest from land and is where crews hand over between oceanic air traffic control sectors.
- Crews continuously monitor fuel, aircraft systems, weather and potential alternates as part of routine procedure and training.