What is required before accepting a clearance for a STAR?

Before accepting a clearance for a Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR), it is essential to ensure compliance with altitude and airspeed restrictions. STAR procedures often include specific instructions on how pilots should manage their altitude and airspeed during the arrival phase in order to maintain safe separation from other aircraft and organize the flow of traffic into the terminal area. This adherence is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency in busy airspace.

Following altitude and airspeed restrictions also helps in maintaining optimal aircraft performance and allows for smoother transitions from the en-route phase to the approach phase. This careful attention to procedural requirements is critical, as it significantly contributes to the overall safety and effectiveness of the arrival process into an airport.