What is the purpose of Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs)?

Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs) are predefined routes that guide aircraft from the en-route structure to the vicinity of an airport, ensuring a structured approach to landing. While simplification of clearance delivery procedures is a benefit of using STARs, the primary purpose of these routes is to enhance the efficiency and safety of aircraft operations as they approach an airport.

STARs organize traffic flow, allowing multiple aircraft to arrive at the same airport in a predictable manner. This reduces the workload for both air traffic controllers and pilots, allowing for better planning and management of arrivals, which ultimately increases safety and efficiency in the terminal airspace.

Although simplifying clearance procedures, facilitating rapid landing procedures, and decreasing communication workload are considerations associated with STARs, the overarching goal is to improve the overall safety and efficiency of the aircraft approach phase. This focus on safety and efficiency is what makes STARs an essential part of modern air traffic management.