When does an overtaking situation in the air exist?

An overtaking situation in the air is defined as when one aircraft approaches another from behind, within a specific angular range relative to the overtaken aircraft’s centerline. Specifically, if the overtaking aircraft is within 70 degrees on either side of the overtaken aircraft’s centerline, it is considered to be in an overtaking situation.

Understanding this concept is important because it determines the rights of way in the air. The aircraft being overtaken maintains the right of way, and the overtaking aircraft must take care to avoid a collision. This rule is reflected in aviation regulations, which help pilots navigate and operate safely in shared airspace.

The other options do not accurately describe the conditions under which an overtaking situation exists. Simply being at any angle does not specify the necessary conditions for overtaking, while being below does not account for the forward aspect of the approach. Similarly, flying parallel does not constitute an overtaking scenario, as it implies that both aircraft are traveling in the same direction without one closing in from behind.