Airport Operations & Traffic Management Flashcards
7 cards from real CTO practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Airport Operations & Traffic Management flashcards as text
When must a tower controller obtain a release from TRACON before issuing an IFR departure clearance?
Answer: Always, unless a Letter of Agreement (LOA) specifies otherwise
IFR departures require release from the controlling TRACON/Center unless an LOA establishes automated or pre-coordinated release procedures.
A 'stop bar' at an airport is:
Answer: An in-pavement lighting system or marking that indicates a point where aircraft must stop pending ATC clearance
Stop bars are illuminated in-pavement red lights or runway holding position markings where aircraft must hold until cleared to proceed.
What is the purpose of a Runway Status Light (RWSL) system?
Answer: To automatically display red lights to pilots when the runway is unsafe to enter or cross
RWSL is an independent safety system that displays red in-pavement lights to warn pilots when a runway is occupied or unsafe, without controller action.
An aircraft is cleared for a visual approach. What primary responsibility does this transfer to the pilot?
Answer: Maintaining visual contact with the runway or preceding traffic and ensuring safe separation
On a visual approach, the pilot accepts responsibility for visual separation from preceding traffic and maintaining safe flight to the runway.
What does the term 'final' refer to in standard traffic pattern terminology?
Answer: The portion of the traffic pattern that is an extension of the centerline of the runway being used for landing
Final is the traffic pattern leg aligned with and leading directly to the runway threshold, flown after the base leg turn.
What is a 'Class D' airspace service requirement that differentiates it from Class E airspace?
Answer: Two-way radio communication must be established with ATC before entry
Class D airspace requires pilots to establish two-way radio communication with the controlling tower prior to entry, unlike Class E which has no such pre-entry requirement.
A pilot reports 'in sight' on a visual approach and is instructed to 'follow the heavy 737 on a 5-mile final.' What separation standard applies?
Answer: Wake turbulence separation minimums based on the weight category of the leading aircraft
When sequencing behind a heavy aircraft, wake turbulence separation minimums apply and the controller must ensure appropriate spacing.
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