Category E through I aircraft must be separated landing behind departing Category B, C, or D aircraft by a minimum of _______ minutes.

The correct answer is 2 minutes, which is the minimum required separation time between Category E through I aircraft landing behind departing Category B, C, or D aircraft. This rule is established to ensure safety and efficiency within the air traffic control system.

When a larger aircraft takes off, it can create significant wake turbulence. The 2-minute separation requirement helps to ensure that smaller aircraft, classified as Category E through I, have sufficient time to avoid the potentially hazardous effects of this wake turbulence. Wake turbulence can lead to loss of control or destabilization for the following aircraft, so having a specific time interval allows for safe distance management.

This procedural guideline is crucial for maintaining safety in busy airspaces where various aircraft are operating, as it helps mitigate risks associated with wake turbulence and enhances overall operational safety. Understanding these separation times is key for air traffic controllers, as it informs their decision-making regarding aircraft movements on the runway and in the air.