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KCAA ATC practice questions

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Question 1Air Traffic Control Service

Under ICAO Annex 11, which unit is responsible for providing air traffic control service to controlled flights in the Nairobi Flight Information Region?

  1. The flight information service officer on watch
  2. The communication station handling the flight's radio contact
  3. The area control centre designated by the State for that FIR Correct answer.
  4. The aerodrome control tower nearest to the aircraft's position

Explanation

Annex 11 assigns responsibility for providing air traffic control service within a flight information region to the area control centre or other unit designated by the State. Aerodrome towers and communication stations do not hold that regional control responsibility.

Question 2Air Traffic Control Service

Which service is provided to alert search and rescue services when an aircraft is believed to be in distress?

  1. Advisory service
  2. Flight information service
  3. Alerting service Correct answer.
  4. Aerodrome control service

Explanation

The alerting service notifies appropriate search and rescue organisations when an aircraft is in a state of emergency or is overdue. It is a distinct service under Annex 11, separate from control and flight information.

Question 3Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft on approach reports it can maintain its own separation from other traffic while remaining in visual meteorological conditions. What does the controller still owe that aircraft?

  1. A revised clearance for every other aircraft in the zone
  2. Full radar separation from all IFR traffic
  3. Nothing, because the pilot has accepted responsibility
  4. Traffic information and safety alerts Correct answer.

Explanation

Even when a pilot accepts responsibility for own separation in VMC, the controller must still provide traffic information and issue safety alerts. The pilot's acceptance does not remove the controller's duty to warn of conflicting traffic.

Question 4Air Traffic Control Service

A controller needs to pass a clearance to an aircraft whose callsign is similar to another aircraft on the same frequency. What is the correct practice?

  1. Delegate the transmission to the crew of the other aircraft
  2. Use the abbreviated callsign of the addressed aircraft to save transmission time
  3. Address both aircraft at once and let each select its own clearance
  4. Repeat the full callsign of the addressed aircraft and require read-back of the clearance Correct answer.

Explanation

When callsign confusion is possible, controllers should use the full callsign and obtain read-back to confirm the correct aircraft receives and understands the clearance. Abbreviated callsigns increase the risk of a wrong aircraft acting on the instruction.

Question 5Air Traffic Control Service

Which condition must be met before a controlled flight may be cleared to descend below the minimum flight altitude established for the route?

  1. The aircraft has been radar identified by any ATS unit
  2. The aircraft is above flight level 200
  3. The pilot has requested the descent in writing
  4. The aircraft is cleared by the controller and the pilot reports the applicable minimum safe altitude is assured Correct answer.

Explanation

A flight may only descend below the established minimum flight altitude when cleared by the appropriate ATC unit and when the pilot is able to assure terrain clearance. Radar identification alone does not authorise descent below minimum altitudes.

Question 6Air Traffic Control Service

What is the primary purpose of the ATS surveillance system in providing air traffic control service?

  1. To automate the issuance of NOTAM briefings
  2. To record cockpit voice communications for accident investigation
  3. To determine and display aircraft positions to support separation and identification Correct answer.
  4. To distribute meteorological forecasts to flight crews

Explanation

ATS surveillance systems determine aircraft position and present it to controllers, enabling identification and the application of separation. Voice recording and weather distribution are separate functions not served by surveillance.

Question 7Air Traffic Control Service

A pilot reports reaching a holding fix but the aircraft's estimated time over the fix was earlier. Which action reflects correct ATC handling?

  1. Assume the aircraft has already landed
  2. Ignore the report because the estimate was already filed
  3. Instruct the aircraft to leave the hold immediately without further coordination
  4. Record the actual time over the fix and adjust the onward estimate accordingly Correct answer.

Explanation

Controllers must update the flight's progress when actual times differ from estimates so that separation and onward coordination remain accurate. Ignoring the discrepancy would corrupt the estimates used for planning.

Question 8Air Traffic Control Service

Which phraseology is used to instruct an aircraft to change to a different radio frequency?

  1. "Stand by [frequency]"
  2. "Monitor [frequency]"
  3. "Contact [unit] [frequency]" Correct answer.
  4. "Report [frequency]"

Explanation

The standard instruction to transfer communication to another unit is "Contact [unit] [frequency]". The other phrases describe waiting, listening without transmitting, or reporting, not a transfer of communication.

Question 9Air Traffic Control Service

A controller wishes to issue a conditional clearance such as "after the landing aircraft, line up". What must the controller ensure?

  1. The condition is clear, the aircraft is identified, and the clearance is read back Correct answer.
  2. The condition is given only after the aircraft has lined up
  3. The clearance is passed to all aircraft on frequency
  4. The condition is omitted if the pilot appears busy

Explanation

Conditional clearances require a clear condition and identification of the aircraft concerned, and they must be read back to confirm understanding. Omitting the condition or issuing it after the fact defeats the purpose of the clearance.

Question 10Air Traffic Control Service

What is the standard read-back requirement for a clearance to hold short of a runway?

  1. No read-back is required for hold-short instructions
  2. The pilot need only acknowledge with "roger"
  3. The pilot must read back the hold-short instruction in full Correct answer.
  4. The pilot may read back only the runway designator

Explanation

Hold-short instructions are safety-critical and must be read back in full so the controller can verify the instruction was correctly received. A simple acknowledgement does not confirm the runway or the hold point.

Question 11Air Traffic Control Service

Two IFR aircraft are on converging tracks at the same level in controlled airspace without radar. Which separation standard applies?

  1. No separation is required once both are in controlled airspace
  2. Separation by aerodrome control tower
  3. Visual separation by the pilot of one aircraft
  4. The prescribed longitudinal, lateral or vertical separation minimum appropriate to the route and equipment Correct answer.

Explanation

In controlled airspace without surveillance, separation is achieved by applying the prescribed vertical, lateral or longitudinal minima. Visual separation is not a substitute unless specifically authorised and conditions permit.

Question 12Air Traffic Control Service

What does the term "essential traffic information" mean when passed to an aircraft?

  1. A summary of the aerodrome weather forecast
  2. Information about the aircraft's own navigation equipment status
  3. Information about other controlled traffic that may affect the aircraft's safety Correct answer.
  4. Details of the aircraft's fuel endurance

Explanation

Essential traffic information concerns other controlled flights whose proximity may affect the safety of the aircraft receiving it. It is passed so the pilot can maintain awareness of relevant conflicting traffic.

Question 13Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft is cleared to descend to 4 000 ft but the controller later needs it at 6 000 ft. Which transmission is correct?

  1. "Maintain 6 000 ft"
  2. "Report 6 000 ft"
  3. "Climb to 6 000 ft" Correct answer.
  4. "Descend to 6 000 ft"

Explanation

When the new level is above the aircraft's current cleared level, the instruction must be to climb, not descend. "Maintain" would not direct a change to the higher level, and "report" does not assign a level.

Question 14Air Traffic Control Service

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a clearance limit in an ATC clearance?

  1. It records the pilot's licence number
  2. It defines the point to which the aircraft is authorised to proceed Correct answer.
  3. It specifies the aircraft's radio frequency
  4. It states the aircraft's cruising speed

Explanation

The clearance limit is the point to which an aircraft is authorised to proceed under its clearance. It is a core element of the clearance and governs how far the flight may continue without a further clearance.

Question 15Air Traffic Control Service

A controller observes a radar return entering a restricted area. What is the appropriate first action?

  1. Ignore the return because restricted areas are advisory
  2. Report the matter only at the end of the shift
  3. Cancel all other clearances on frequency
  4. Warn the aircraft and, if necessary, issue instructions to keep it clear of the area Correct answer.

Explanation

When an aircraft appears to be entering a restricted area, the controller should warn the pilot and issue instructions to keep the aircraft clear. Prompt action protects the safety of the flight and other users of the area.

Question 16Air Traffic Control Service

What is the required action when a controller detects that two aircraft have lost the prescribed separation?

  1. Take action to restore the required separation and inform the aircraft concerned Correct answer.
  2. Wait for the pilots to resolve the conflict
  3. Record the event and continue without informing the aircraft
  4. Reduce separation minima for the remainder of the shift

Explanation

On detecting a loss of separation, the controller must act immediately to restore the required separation and inform the aircraft involved. Recording the event does not substitute for corrective action.

Question 17Air Traffic Control Service

Which of the following is an element of an ATC clearance?

  1. Airline's catering arrangements
  2. Aerodrome fire category
  3. Aircraft identification Correct answer.
  4. Pilot's medical certificate number

Explanation

An ATC clearance identifies the aircraft to which it applies and contains instructions such as route, level and any restrictions. Administrative details such as certificates, fire category or catering are not clearance elements.

Question 18Air Traffic Control Service

A controller needs to pass a long message to a pilot. What is the recommended practice?

  1. Break the message into segments and obtain acknowledgement of each segment Correct answer.
  2. Ask another aircraft to relay the message
  3. Transmit the whole message once at maximum speed
  4. Omit the final portion to save time

Explanation

Long messages should be transmitted in segments with acknowledgement of each part so that errors are detected and corrected. Single high-speed transmissions increase the likelihood of misunderstanding.

Question 19Air Traffic Control Service

What does the abbreviation "SSR" refer to in the context of ATS surveillance?

  1. Standard separation requirement
  2. Surface search radar
  3. Secondary surveillance radar Correct answer.
  4. Special service request

Explanation

SSR stands for secondary surveillance radar, which interrogates aircraft transponders to obtain identification and level information. The other expansions are not ATS surveillance terms.

Question 20Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft requests a deviation around weather while in controlled airspace. What should the controller do?

  1. Refuse all deviations because the flight plan cannot be amended
  2. Approve the deviation if separation can be maintained and advise other affected traffic Correct answer.
  3. Instruct the aircraft to remain on track regardless of weather
  4. Cancel the flight's clearance

Explanation

Controllers should accommodate weather deviations where separation can be maintained, issuing revised instructions and informing other affected aircraft. Refusing a deviation in the face of hazardous weather would compromise safety.

Question 21Air Traffic Control Service

Which factor determines the longitudinal separation minimum applied between two aircraft on the same track using ADS-C in oceanic airspace?

  1. The aircraft's paint scheme
  2. The prescribed time or distance minimum based on the surveillance and communication capability in that airspace Correct answer.
  3. The airline's preferred routing
  4. The number of crew on board

Explanation

Longitudinal separation in oceanic airspace depends on the prescribed minima for the surveillance and communication capability available, such as time or distance standards. Cosmetic or crewing details have no bearing on separation.

Question 22Air Traffic Control Service

What is the function of a clearance delivery position at a controlled aerodrome?

  1. To provide aerodrome control to landing aircraft
  2. To handle search and rescue coordination
  3. To maintain the aerodrome lighting system
  4. To issue ATC clearances to departing aircraft before they taxi Correct answer.

Explanation

Clearance delivery issues ATC clearances to departing aircraft, typically before taxi, so that the surface and tower positions can focus on movement control. It does not control landing traffic or manage rescue or lighting.

Question 23Air Traffic Control Service

A pilot reads back a clearance with an incorrect level. What must the controller do?

  1. Cancel the flight's clearance entirely
  2. Accept the read-back because the pilot acknowledged
  3. Immediately correct the read-back and obtain a correct read-back Correct answer.
  4. Assume the pilot will notice the error later

Explanation

A read-back that does not match the clearance indicates a possible misunderstanding and must be corrected at once, with a fresh read-back obtained. Accepting an erroneous read-back would leave the aircraft on the wrong level.

Question 24Air Traffic Control Service

Which statement about the provision of air traffic control service to VFR flights in controlled airspace is correct?

  1. VFR flights do not require any clearance in controlled airspace
  2. VFR flights may be provided with control service when the prescribed conditions and clearances are met Correct answer.
  3. VFR flights can never receive air traffic control service
  4. VFR flights are always separated from IFR flights without restriction

Explanation

VFR flights in controlled airspace can receive air traffic control service when the applicable conditions are satisfied and clearances are issued. They are not automatically excluded, nor are they automatically separated from IFR traffic.

Question 25Air Traffic Control Service

What is the purpose of a safety alert issued by an ATS unit?

  1. To notify an aircraft of a situation that may endanger its safety, such as a conflicting aircraft or terrain Correct answer.
  2. To confirm the aircraft's estimated time of arrival
  3. To transfer the aircraft to another frequency
  4. To advise the aircraft of a change in the aerodrome weather

Explanation

A safety alert warns an aircraft of a potentially hazardous situation, such as conflicting traffic or proximity to terrain, so the pilot can take action. Weather changes and frequency transfers are handled by other messages.

Question 26Air Traffic Control Service

Under ICAO procedures, what does a controller issue to an aircraft to indicate that it may proceed under specified conditions after another aircraft or vehicle has cleared the way?

  1. A holding instruction
  2. A traffic information bulletin
  3. A level restriction
  4. A conditional clearance Correct answer.

Explanation

A conditional clearance authorises action subject to a stated condition being met, typically the preceding aircraft or vehicle having vacated the relevant area. The controller must identify the subject of the condition and the condition itself, and the pilot must read it back in full.

Question 27Air Traffic Control Service

Which unit within an ATS organisation is responsible for providing alerting service to aircraft in distress?

  1. The area control centre or approach control unit handling the flight Correct answer.
  2. The aerodrome fire and rescue service alone
  3. The communications station that first receives the distress call
  4. The meteorological office serving the flight

Explanation

Alerting service is an ATS function, provided by the ATC unit responsible for the aircraft, whether area, approach or aerodrome control. That unit notifies the appropriate rescue coordination centre and keeps it informed of developments.

Question 28Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft on approach reports that it has the runway in sight but is not yet cleared to land. What is the appropriate controller response?

  1. Advise the aircraft to contact the tower after landing
  2. Remain silent until the aircraft reaches the threshold
  3. Issue the landing clearance if the runway is clear and separation is assured Correct answer.
  4. Instruct the aircraft to go around immediately

Explanation

A report of runway in sight does not itself constitute a landing clearance, but once the controller is satisfied the runway is clear and separation exists, the landing clearance should be issued without delay. Delaying a clearance when conditions are met deprives the pilot of essential information.

Question 29Air Traffic Control Service

What is the primary purpose of the ATS flight plan in the provision of air traffic control service?

  1. To record the aircraft's maintenance status for the operator
  2. To serve as a legal contract between the operator and the air navigation service provider
  3. To provide advance notice of intended flight so that ATS units can plan and coordinate Correct answer.
  4. To replace the need for position reports during the flight

Explanation

A flight plan gives ATS units prior notification of a flight's intentions, enabling flow planning, coordination between units and the initiation of alerting service. It does not remove the need for in-flight reports or clearances.

Question 30Air Traffic Control Service

Which of the following correctly states the read-back requirement for a route clearance containing a level change?

  1. The pilot may read back only the route portion
  2. The pilot reads back only if requested by the controller
  3. The pilot need only acknowledge with the aircraft call sign
  4. The pilot must read back the clearance in full including the level Correct answer.

Explanation

Clearances and instructions containing route or level details must be read back in full so the controller can verify that the message was received and understood correctly. A simple acknowledgement does not demonstrate that the level was correctly copied.

Question 31Air Traffic Control Service

What does the term "estimated time of arrival" mean when used by a controller in an ATS context?

  1. The time at which the aircraft is expected to arrive over a designated point or aerodrome Correct answer.
  2. The time the aircraft's fuel endurance expires
  3. The time the aircraft actually leaves the departure gate
  4. The time the flight plan was filed with ATS

Explanation

The estimated time of arrival is the predicted time the aircraft will arrive over the point or aerodrome specified in the relevant clearance or flight plan. It is used for coordination and for estimating fuel endurance margins.

Question 32Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft is instructed to "hold short of runway 09 at the holding position". What does this instruction require the pilot to do?

  1. Stop before the designated holding position and await further clearance Correct answer.
  2. Continue onto the runway but stop before the centreline
  3. Taxi along the runway edge until the next exit
  4. Remain on the taxiway without any stopping requirement

Explanation

Holding short requires the aircraft to stop at the designated holding position and not proceed further until an explicit clearance is received. It protects the runway strip from incursions.

Question 33Air Traffic Control Service

Which of the following best describes the function of the ATS surveillance system in relation to separation monitoring?

  1. It automatically issues clearances to aircraft without controller action
  2. It replaces the need for flight plans for all controlled flights
  3. It allows the controller to identify aircraft positions and detect loss of separation Correct answer.
  4. It provides weather forecasts to aircraft in flight

Explanation

Surveillance systems present aircraft positions to the controller, who uses them to monitor separation and identify conflicts. The controller remains responsible for the clearances and instructions issued.

Question 34Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft under radar control is observed to be drifting towards the edge of controlled airspace. What should the controller do first?

  1. Wait until the aircraft has actually left controlled airspace
  2. Cancel the aircraft's flight plan immediately
  3. Advise the aircraft of its position and issue any necessary instruction to remain within controlled airspace Correct answer.
  4. Hand the aircraft to the adjacent unit without any coordination

Explanation

The controller should promptly inform the aircraft of its position and, where necessary, instruct it to turn or adjust its route to remain within controlled airspace. Early action prevents an unplanned airspace infringement.

Question 35Air Traffic Control Service

Two aircraft are established in the same holding pattern at different levels. What separation is normally applied?

  1. Vertical separation of at least 1 000 ft between the aircraft Correct answer.
  2. No separation is required within a holding pattern
  3. Lateral separation based on the holding fix only
  4. Longitudinal separation of 10 minutes between the aircraft

Explanation

Aircraft stacked in a holding pattern are normally separated vertically by the applicable minimum, commonly 1 000 ft at lower levels. Vertical separation is the simplest and most reliable means in the confined holding airspace.

Question 36Air Traffic Control Service

A pilot requests start-up and push-back at an aerodrome where a ground control position is active. What is the normal sequence of clearances?

  1. Take-off clearance first, then push-back clearance
  2. Start-up and push-back from ground or delivery, then taxi clearance Correct answer.
  3. Taxi clearance first, then start-up clearance
  4. No clearance is required before push-back

Explanation

Start-up and push-back are normally authorised before taxi, since the aircraft must be ready to move before a taxi clearance can be used. The precise position responsible varies with the unit's procedures, but the order of events is fixed.

Question 37Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft requests a cruise level that is not available due to conflicting traffic. What should the controller do?

  1. Refuse the request without offering any alternative
  2. Ignore the request and continue with other traffic
  3. Issue the requested level and resolve the conflict later
  4. Offer an alternative level and inform the aircraft of the reason where appropriate Correct answer.

Explanation

Where the requested level cannot be granted, the controller should offer an available alternative and may give a brief reason such as traffic. This supports the pilot's planning while maintaining separation.

Question 38Air Traffic Control Service

What is the purpose of the ATS unit's watch handover between controllers?

  1. To transfer responsibility for traffic with a briefing on the operational situation Correct answer.
  2. To allow controllers to exchange shift rosters
  3. To review the unit's financial performance
  4. To provide a break in the provision of service

Explanation

A handover transfers responsibility for the traffic and includes a briefing on the current situation, outstanding coordination and any special conditions. It ensures continuity of service without loss of information.

Question 39Air Traffic Control Service

A controlled flight becomes overdue on a route where no position reports have been received. What action should the ATS unit take?

  1. Initiate alerting service in accordance with the unit's procedures Correct answer.
  2. Wait for the aircraft to contact the unit
  3. Pass the flight to the next unit without comment
  4. Close the flight plan as completed

Explanation

When an aircraft becomes overdue, the unit responsible initiates alerting service, which may include notifying the rescue coordination centre and other units along the route. Delay in initiating alerting service reduces the chance of effective assistance.

Question 40Air Traffic Control Service

Which condition must be met before a controller may apply reduced separation based on radar identification of both aircraft?

  1. The aircraft must be on the same frequency as each other
  2. The pilots must agree to the reduced separation
  3. The aircraft must both be VFR
  4. Both aircraft must be positively identified and remain within surveillance coverage Correct answer.

Explanation

Reduced radar separation requires positive identification of both aircraft and their continued presence within the surveillance coverage and any associated equipment limitations. Loss of identification means the reduced minimum can no longer be applied.

Question 41Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft requests clearance to cross an active runway. What information should the controller provide before issuing the crossing clearance?

  1. The meteorological conditions at the destination
  2. The name of the next controller
  3. The aircraft's flight plan status
  4. Any relevant traffic information and the instruction to cross and report clear Correct answer.

Explanation

Before a runway crossing, the controller provides relevant traffic information and issues the crossing instruction, usually with a requirement to report when clear of the runway. This maintains situational awareness and protects the runway.

Question 42Air Traffic Control Service

What does the term "traffic in sight" reported by a pilot mean to the controller?

  1. The pilot has received the traffic information but has not located the aircraft
  2. The pilot is requesting a radar service
  3. The pilot has visually acquired the specified aircraft and may be able to maintain own separation if instructed Correct answer.
  4. The pilot wishes to change frequency

Explanation

A report of traffic in sight confirms the pilot has visually acquired the aircraft concerned. This may allow the controller to instruct the pilot to maintain own separation in appropriate circumstances, subject to the applicable rules.

Question 43Air Traffic Control Service

Which of the following is the correct controller action when a pilot reports a radio communication failure while in controlled airspace?

  1. Instruct the aircraft to land immediately at the nearest aerodrome
  2. Assume the aircraft will continue to its destination without restriction
  3. Cancel all other traffic in the area
  4. Apply the published communication failure procedures and maintain separation from the aircraft Correct answer.

Explanation

The controller applies the established communication failure procedures, which typically involve maintaining separation, watching for the aircraft's expected behaviour and coordinating with adjacent units. The pilot follows the published transponder and route procedures.

Question 44Air Traffic Control Service

What is the function of the ATS unit's flight data display or strip system?

  1. To record and present flight information needed for control and coordination Correct answer.
  2. To calculate the aircraft's fuel consumption
  3. To provide entertainment information to pilots
  4. To replace radio communication with aircraft

Explanation

Flight data displays or strips present the information the controller needs, such as callsign, route, level and coordination status. They support the controller's mental model and reduce the risk of forgotten coordination.

Question 45Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft is cleared to descend at its discretion to a lower level while maintaining a specified minimum. What must the controller ensure before issuing this clearance?

  1. The aircraft has sufficient fuel for the descent
  2. The destination weather is above minima
  3. The pilot holds an instrument rating
  4. Separation will exist at all levels the aircraft may occupy during the descent Correct answer.

Explanation

A descent at discretion allows the aircraft to occupy any level between its current level and the cleared limit, so separation must be assured throughout that band. The controller must check the whole range, not just the final level.

Question 46Air Traffic Control Service

A controller intends to issue a clearance that differs from the pilot's requested route. What is the recommended practice?

  1. Issue the clearance only after the pilot repeats the request
  2. Refuse to issue any clearance until the pilot agrees
  3. Issue the clearance clearly and, where necessary, explain the reason briefly Correct answer.
  4. Pass the clearance through another aircraft

Explanation

Clearances that differ from the request should be issued clearly and, where useful, with a brief reason so the pilot understands the change. Relaying through another aircraft or withholding the clearance is poor practice.

Question 47Air Traffic Control Service

Two aircraft are on the same track at the same level, and the controller plans to apply longitudinal separation based on a time interval. Which factor is most critical to the validity of that separation?

  1. Accurate position and time information for the leading aircraft Correct answer.
  2. The number of passengers on board
  3. The colour of the aircraft livery
  4. The aircraft's cruise speed only

Explanation

Time-based longitudinal separation depends on reliable position and time information for the leading aircraft, since the interval is measured from that aircraft's reported position. Without accurate data the separation cannot be assured.

Question 48Air Traffic Control Service

A controller observes that an aircraft has deviated significantly from its cleared route without a reported reason. What is the most appropriate first action?

  1. Query the aircraft and clarify its intentions before taking further action Correct answer.
  2. File a report with the regulator
  3. Assume the aircraft is conducting a test flight
  4. Immediately issue a traffic alert to all aircraft in the area

Explanation

The first step is to establish communication with the aircraft and clarify its position and intentions, since the deviation may be due to a navigational or communication issue. Further action, such as separating other traffic, follows from that information.

Question 49Air Traffic Control Service

Which statement best explains why a controller should avoid issuing a clearance that combines several instructions in one transmission when the pilot is busy?

  1. Pilots cannot read back more than one instruction
  2. Combined transmissions are prohibited by ICAO
  3. Complex combined transmissions increase the risk of miscommunication and read-back error Correct answer.
  4. Combined transmissions take longer to transmit

Explanation

Combining several instructions in a single transmission raises the chance that part of the message is misheard or omitted in the read-back. Breaking the clearance into manageable parts improves comprehension and verification.

Question 50Air Traffic Control Service

An aircraft requests a deviation around a thunderstorm that will take it outside controlled airspace. What should the controller do?

  1. Terminate the flight plan immediately
  2. Instruct the pilot to remain in cloud instead
  3. Refuse the deviation because it leaves controlled airspace
  4. Coordinate with the adjacent unit and advise the pilot of the airspace boundary Correct answer.

Explanation

The controller should coordinate with the adjacent unit and inform the pilot of the boundary so the aircraft can be handled appropriately on leaving controlled airspace. Refusing a weather deviation is not acceptable where safety is at stake.