In Case III departures, what is the arc distance to intercept the departure radial?

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Multiple Choice

In Case III departures, what is the arc distance to intercept the departure radial?

Case III departures use a circular arc around a navigation aid to set up the moment you intercept the departure radial. The distance you fly on that arc determines where you roll from the arc onto the radial, giving you a clean, controlled intercept with the required outbound track. For this procedure, the published arc distance is three miles. Reaching that three-mile point places you at the proper angle and distance to turn onto the departure radial with a standard intercept, while staying within the protected airspace and maintaining a safe transition from the arc to the radial. Intercepting too soon leaves you too close to the VOR for a reliable intercept; intercepting later can lead to a less stable turn or conflicts with traffic on the departure path. That’s why three miles is the best choice.

Case III departures use a circular arc around a navigation aid to set up the moment you intercept the departure radial. The distance you fly on that arc determines where you roll from the arc onto the radial, giving you a clean, controlled intercept with the required outbound track. For this procedure, the published arc distance is three miles. Reaching that three-mile point places you at the proper angle and distance to turn onto the departure radial with a standard intercept, while staying within the protected airspace and maintaining a safe transition from the arc to the radial. Intercepting too soon leaves you too close to the VOR for a reliable intercept; intercepting later can lead to a less stable turn or conflicts with traffic on the departure path. That’s why three miles is the best choice.

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