ATSA Air Traffic Controller Entry 4

Question 1

In the ATSA's air traffic scenarios, a candidate is asked to sequence three aircraft for a single runway. What is the primary factor used to assign landing order?

Accepted Answer

Aircraft weight category and relative position to the airport

Answer

Sequencing decisions are primarily driven by each aircraft's relative distance, speed, and weight category to ensure safe wake turbulence separation and efficient flow.

Question 2

What is the squawk code assigned to all aircraft experiencing an in-flight emergency?

Accepted Answer

7700

Answer

Squawk 7700 is the universal emergency transponder code that alerts ATC radar systems and controllers to an aircraft in distress.

Question 3

A controller issues a 'speed adjustment' to an arriving aircraft. What is the primary purpose of this instruction?

Accepted Answer

To maintain safe spacing in the arrival sequence

Answer

Speed adjustments are used to compress or expand spacing between arrivals, ensuring safe separation while maximizing runway throughput.

Question 4

Which document primarily governs air traffic control procedures in the United States?

Accepted Answer

FAA Order 7110.65 (Air Traffic Control)

Answer

FAA Order 7110.65, 'Air Traffic Control,' is the primary reference that establishes procedures and phraseology for U.S. ATC operations.

Question 5

When a controller clears an aircraft to 'descend via' a published STAR, what is the pilot expected to do?

Accepted Answer

Fly the lateral path and comply with all published altitude and speed restrictions on the STAR

Answer

'Descend via' authorizes the aircraft to follow the STAR's lateral course while complying with all depicted crossing restrictions for altitude and speed.

ATSA - Air Traffic Skills Assessment Practice Test

ATSA - Air Traffic Skills Assessment Practice Test

ATSA Air Traffic Controller Entry 4