Free Air Traffic Controller Knowledge Question and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: The ____________ shall decide the order of the final (within 2 miles of the airport) landing of the aircraft under its control.
- center controller
- control tower (Correct answer)
- approach controller
- flight service station
Correct answer: control tower
The control tower, specifically the local controller, is responsible for the active runways and the immediate airspace around the airport, including the final sequencing and landing of aircraft. Within approximately 2 miles of the airport, the tower controller has the exclusive authority to decide the order and timing of aircraft landings to ensure safe and efficient operations.
Question 2: Which of the following runways should be used when the wind speed is less than 5 knots?
- Any runway
- Calm wind (Correct answer)
- Pilot’s choice
- Controller’s choice
Correct answer: Calm wind
When wind speed is less than 5 knots, it is considered 'calm wind' conditions in aviation. In such scenarios, air traffic control typically assigns the runway that is most convenient for operations, often the one that minimizes taxi distance or noise impact. The term 'calm wind runway' refers to the preferred runway for use under these low-wind conditions.
Question 3: With the exception of the active runway(s), the ____ controller is in charge of overseeing aircraft operations on the airport movement area.
- local
- non-radar
- ground (Correct answer)
- radar
Correct answer: ground
The Ground Controller is responsible for all aircraft and vehicle movements on the airport's taxiways and non-active runways. Their primary role is to prevent collisions and ensure an orderly flow of traffic on the ground. The Local Controller, on the other hand, manages aircraft on the active runway(s) and in the immediate airspace.
Question 4: In the vicinity of airports where they are located, airport traffic control towers (ATCT) offer both proactive and preventive control of VFR and IFR aircraft.
- False
- True (Correct answer)
Correct answer: True
Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs) provide both proactive and preventive control for all aircraft, regardless of whether they are operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) or Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This control ensures the safe and efficient movement of air traffic within the airport's airspace and on the ground. Controllers issue instructions and advisories to prevent conflicts and maintain separation.
Question 5: What is the minimum vertical separation (in feet) needed between IFR aircraft below FL 290?
- 500
- 1,000 (Correct answer)
- 2,000
- 3,000
Correct answer: 1,000
Below Flight Level (FL) 290 (29,000 feet), the standard minimum vertical separation required between Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) aircraft is 1,000 feet. This standard ensures a safe buffer between aircraft flying at different altitudes. Above FL 290, with the implementation of Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace, the separation can also be 1,000 feet in designated areas, but traditionally it was 2,000 feet without RVSM.
Question 6: The statement "have numbers" in radio communications does not necessarily mean that the pilot has access to the data provided in the most current ATIS broadcast.
- False
- True (Correct answer)
Correct answer: True
When a pilot states 'have numbers,' it indicates they have received the Automatic Terminal Information Service (ATIS) broadcast. However, it does not guarantee they have fully processed or written down all the critical details. Controllers often follow up with specific instructions or questions to ensure the pilot has the necessary information for their operation.
Question 7: To maintain proper processes or delegate airspace management, centers and towers employ letters of agreement (LOA).
- False
- True (Correct answer)
Correct answer: True
Letters of Agreement (LOAs) are formal documents used by air traffic control facilities, such as Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCCs) and Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs), to define operational procedures and delegate airspace management responsibilities between them. These agreements ensure seamless transitions of aircraft between different control sectors and facilities, maintaining safety and efficiency.
