How far away from the takeoff point would a SID typically extend? Also, how far from landing would a STAR commence?Does one change from using J-airways to using V-airways on the way up and on the way down? Or do the SIDs and STARs incorporate that?Appreciate clarification, advice, etc., thanks!JS

In the UK, SIDs extend as far as their name. For example, from Gatwick (EGKK) the Clacton SID goes to the Clacton VOR/DME. The average track mileage to Clacton is 43nm from runways 26R or L and 36nm from runways 08R or L. (Clacton is roughly NE of EGKK).At EGKK, all the STARS terminate in a holding point. As an example, there are 6 STARS to TIMBA. 5 of these begin at airways; one at the Midhurt VOR/DME. There's no information about their lengths on the published charts.Normally flights are vectored by radar from the holding points but there are Approach Procedures to runways 08R and 26L for use without radar control. These put the aircraft onto the approach. There are additional Instrument Approach Procedures (ILS) covering the final approaches.

>>How far away from the takeoff point would a SID typically>extend? Also, how far from landing would a STAR commence?If you consider the transitions SIDs and STARs can extend out as far as 200 or 300+ miles, the majority I think are under 200 miles.>Does one change from using J-airways to using V-airways on the>way up and on the way down? Either way is acceptable. In the U.S. V-airways are for en route segments that are below FL180. If wish to fly a route segment below FL180 you can use a V-Airway then transition to a J-Airway for the departure or visa versa for the arrival.>Or do the SIDs and STARs incorporate that? Sids and Stars could/would be used in lieu of that. Regards.Ernie.

Gentlemen:Thanks for your replies. Appreciated!JS