How can vertical separation resolve conflicts involving a sector 66 arrival and an overflight?

Vertical separation is a key strategy in air traffic control for managing and resolving conflicts between aircraft flying in the same airspace. In this scenario, where there is a potential conflict involving a sector 66 arrival and an overflight, the correct approach involves moving the arrival under the overflight or climbing the overflight.

This method ensures that the two aircraft maintain safe vertical separation, allowing them to operate simultaneously without interference. By positioning the arrival at a lower altitude beneath the overflight, or by directing the overflight to a higher altitude, air traffic control can clear the conflict effectively. This tactic is crucial because it utilizes the inherent three-dimensional nature of airspace, thus maximizing efficiency and safety by allowing both aircraft to continue on their respective routes without diverting.

The other methods proposed do not directly resolve the vertical separation issue. For instance, contacting both aircraft to change altitude may not guarantee a clearance and could result in further complications or delay, while canceling the overflight could disrupt flight plans unnecessarily. Additionally, diverting the arrival to another sector is typically a more drastic measure that would involve additional operational challenges and is not always necessary if vertical separation can be achieved.