Airport Operations Flashcards

What is progressive taxi instructions in ATC operations?

Answer: Step-by-step taxi directions provided to a pilot unfamiliar with the airport

Progressive taxi instructions are detailed, turn-by-turn directions provided to a pilot who is unfamiliar with the airport or when necessary due to complex taxiway layout.

What is the primary function of Airport Surface Detection Equipment (ASDE-X)?

Answer: To display aircraft and vehicle positions on the airport surface to controllers

ASDE-X is a surface surveillance system that fuses data from multiple sensors to display accurate positions of aircraft and vehicles on the airport surface, enhancing controller situational awareness.

What is a Runway Safety Area (RSA)?

Answer: A defined surface surrounding the runway prepared to reduce damage in the event of an undershoot, overshoot, or excursion

An RSA is a defined surface symmetrically centered on the runway, prepared and suitable to reduce the risk of damage in the event of an aircraft undershoot, overshoot, or veer-off.

When must controllers issue wake turbulence advisories?

Answer: When a lighter aircraft is following a heavier aircraft and wake turbulence may be a factor

Controllers must issue wake turbulence advisories when a lighter aircraft follows a heavier aircraft at an airport or in en route airspace where wake turbulence could be encountered.

What does a flashing green signal from the control tower mean to an aircraft on the ground?

Answer: Cleared to taxi

A flashing green light signal to an aircraft on the ground means cleared to taxi, authorizing the aircraft to begin taxiing operations.

What is the purpose of a stopway at an airport?

Answer: A defined rectangular area beyond the runway used to decelerate an aircraft during an aborted takeoff

A stopway is a defined rectangular area beyond the end of the takeoff runway prepared to support an aircraft decelerating during an aborted takeoff without structural failure.

What information does an airport beacon provide to pilots?

Answer: The location and type of airport (civil, military, heliport, etc.) through its light sequence

Airport beacons indicate the location and type of airport through their light color sequence — civilian airports show alternating white and green, while military airports show white-white-green.