What does ACAS stand for in aviation?

The term ACAS stands for Airborne Collision Avoidance System. This system plays a crucial role in enhancing flight safety by providing pilots with alerts about potential mid-air collisions with other aircraft. ACAS increases situational awareness by utilizing transponder signals to detect nearby aircraft and calculating the risk of collision. When a potential threat is identified, the system issues specific advisories to the pilots, guiding them on appropriate vertical avoidance maneuvers to maintain a safe distance from other planes.

ACAS is vital in reducing the risk of in-flight collisions, especially in busy airspace where numerous aircraft may be operating simultaneously. Its design and functionality have evolved over time, and it has become an established standard in aviation safety practices worldwide, helping to protect both passengers and crew. Understanding ACAS is essential for anyone studying aviation basics, as it represents a key technological advancement in collision avoidance.