ZFW controller described a near conflict event when an Air Carrier jet; unknowingly altitude restricted; was mistaken for a propeller type and issued a low altitude route; reporter claiming aircraft restrictive altitude information was not forwarded.

Date: 2009-11 · Aircraft: EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR · Phase: descent

Anomalies: atc-issue-all-types|aircraft-equipment-problem-less-severe|deviation-discrepancy-procedural-published-material-policy

Synopsis

ZFW controller described a near conflict event when an Air Carrier jet; unknowingly altitude restricted; was mistaken for a propeller type and issued a low altitude route; reporter claiming aircraft restrictive altitude information was not forwarded.

Narrative

Air Carrier X was enroute to DFW. Air Carrier X was an E145/Q and mistaken for a prop because of the altitude filed (10;000 ft) whereas most jets filed this route generally file for 17;000 ft. No information was forwarded to denote this aircraft was unpressurized and restricted to 10;000 feet nor were there in remarks in the remarks section of the flight plan. I issued a 10 degree right turn to join the JEN8 arrival NE of JEN assuming; as with most props; this aircraft did not have RNAV capabilities. I then issued an additional 10 degree right turn to join the STAR at which point realized Air Carrier X was a jet and perhaps a factor for Aircraft Y; an arrival from the west and on on alternate arrival descending to 9;000 ft. I then issued a clearance to Air Carrier X to maintain 11000 feet. It was at this time I was informed by the pilot that his aircraft was restricted to 10;000 ft. Air Carrier X was then instructed to maintain 10;000ft and issued a 20 degree left turn to avoid Aircraft Y. I then asked Aircraft Y to expedite his descent to 9;000ft and issued traffic to Air Carrier X. Air Carrier X reported Aircraft Y in sight and was instructed to maintain visual separation. Recommendation; ensure flight plan information forwarded correctly.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.