ATSA Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the ATSA exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.

📋 ATSA Exam Format at a Glance

100

Questions

60 min

Time Limit

70%

Passing Score

Take a Full ATSA Exam Simulation →

📚 ATSA Topics to Study (21)

Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 cards Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 cards Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 cards Air Controller Knowledge · 7 cards Air Controller Trivia · 7 cards Air Traffic Controller Entry · 7 cards ATC Collision Simulation · 6 cards Deductive Reasoning Scenarios · 6 cards Logical Reasoning Word Problems · 6 cards Multitasking and Prioritization · 6 cards Numerical Memory and Differences · 6 cards Professional Personality Inventory · 6 cards Reading Comprehension Skills · 6 cards Spatial and Visual Relationships · 6 cards Variables and Equations Memory · 6 cards Dial Reading and Gauge Interpretation · 6 cards Dial Reading and Gauge Interpretation · 6 cards Dial Reading and Gauge Interpretation · 6 cards Situational Awareness and Scanning Techniques · 6 cards Situational Awareness and Scanning Techniques · 6 cards Situational Awareness and Scanning Techniques · 6 cards

✍️ Sample ATSA Questions & Answers

1. During the ATC Collision Simulation, two aircraft icons, '3' and '7', are on a direct collision course. What is the appropriate action to take?

✓ Press either '3' or '7' on the numeric keypad.

To prevent a collision, the test-taker only needs to press the number key corresponding to ONE of the conflicting aircraft. Pressing the number removes that icon from the screen, resolving the conflict. It is not necessary to press both numbers.

2. An aircraft reports at FL240 but radar shows it at FL230. The controller should:

✓ Query the pilot to confirm altitude and check altimeter setting

A 1,000-foot discrepancy requires the controller to verify by questioning the pilot and checking altimeter settings before accepting either reading.

3. A DME (Distance Measuring Equipment) shows 45 nautical miles to a VOR. The aircraft travels at 270 knots groundspeed. In how many minutes will it reach the VOR?

✓ 10 minutes

At 270 knots (4.5 NM/min), covering 45 NM takes exactly 10 minutes.

4. Which of the following runways should be used when the wind speed is less than 5 knots?

✓ Calm wind

When wind speeds are less than 5 knots, the wind is considered 'calm.' In such conditions, the preferred runway for landing and takeoff is typically designated as the 'calm wind runway,' which is chosen based on factors like noise abatement, runway length, or traffic patterns, rather than wind direction.

5. An oil pressure gauge reads 85 PSI. Normal range is 60–90 PSI. Is the reading within normal limits?

✓ Yes, within normal range

85 PSI falls between the normal range of 60–90 PSI, so the reading is within normal limits.

6. Aircraft A (ahead) is traveling at 300 knots. Aircraft B is 30 nm behind on the same route at 360 knots. How many minutes before B catches A?

✓ 30 minutes

Closure rate = 360 – 300 = 60 knots; 30 nm ÷ 60 knots × 60 = 30 minutes.

🎯 Free ATSA Practice Tests

Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 questions Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 questions Air Controller Knowledge · 7 questions Air Traffic Controller Entry · 7 questions Speed and Distance Calculations · 7 questions Air Controller Trivia · 7 questions Dial Reading and Gauge Interpretation · 6 questions Situational Awareness and Scanning Techniques · 6 questions Situational Awareness and Scanning Techniques · 6 questions Dial Reading and Gauge Interpretation · 6 questions

📖 ATSA Guides & Articles

Your ATSA Study Path

1. Learn with Flashcards → 2. Drill Practice Tests → 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation

🃏 Flashcards (132)🏆 Exam Simulation