What does the acronym "STAR" stand for in aviation?

The acronym "STAR" stands for "Standard Terminal Arrival Route." This is a predefined route used by aircraft to transition from the en route phase of flight to the approach phase, guiding them into airports in a structured and efficient manner. STARs help to streamline air traffic operations at busy airports by providing a standardized path that can be used by multiple aircraft, ensuring safe and organized arrivals.

The concept of STARs is critical for maintaining safe separation between arriving aircraft, especially in busy terminal airspaces. They also aid in noise abatement efforts, as they can be designed to keep arriving aircraft over specific areas to minimize noise impact on communities surrounding airports. Overall, STARs enhance the efficiency of air traffic management and contribute to the overall safety and reliability of flight operations.