Approval of airspace for an ALTRV does NOT preclude ATC from using that airspace, provided what condition is met?

The approval of airspace for an Alternate Flight Rules (ALTRV) is a special permission that allows certain flights to operate outside the standard rules and procedures in controlled airspace. However, this approval does not automatically prevent Air Traffic Control (ATC) from utilizing that same airspace. The key factor that allows ATC to also use the airspace is the application of separation standards.

Separation refers to the measures that ATC employs to maintain a safe distance between aircraft, ensuring that they do not come into conflict with one another during their operations. This includes vertical separation (different altitudes), horizontal separation (different flight paths), and timely communication with pilots to manage their positions. By effectively employing separation, ATC can continue to manage airspace efficiently while accommodating the operational needs of ALTRV flights.

In contrast, while factors like fuel limits, weather conditions, and altitude restrictions can influence flight operations, they do not directly relate to the condition under which ATC can use the same airspace as an ALTRV flight. Hence, maintaining required separation is the crucial condition for ATC to operate safely in the airspace that has been approved for an ALTRV.