Which entity uses the Airport Acceptance Rate (AAR) to determine the interval between arriving aircraft?

The Airport Acceptance Rate (AAR) is primarily used by Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC) to determine the interval between arriving aircraft at an airport. This metric is crucial for managing the flow of air traffic and ensuring safety during landings. The AAR provides the number of aircraft that can be accepted at an airport within a given time frame, helping air traffic controllers optimize their operations and reduce delays caused by excessive arrivals.

The ARTCC's responsibility is to manage air traffic in specific sectors of controlled airspace, which includes coordinating the arrival of aircraft into airports. By using the AAR, controllers can make informed decisions about spacing between arriving flights, which is essential for maintaining safe separation and for efficiently utilizing runway capacity.

In contrast, other entities like the FAA primarily oversee regulations and procedures related to aviation safety and air traffic management. The NTSB is focused on investigating accidents and enhancing transportation safety, while the DOT's role encompasses broader transportation policies, including aviation, but does not involve the technical management of air traffic intervals like the AAR.