Traffic Management and Navigation Flashcards
7 cards from real VTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Traffic Management and Navigation flashcards as text
During a vessel's transit through a VTS zone, the operator notices an unexpected current set causing the vessel to drift toward a shoal. What information should the VTS operator immediately broadcast?
Answer: A SECURITE call on channel 16 for all traffic in the area
A SECURITE call on Channel 16 is the appropriate broadcast for navigational safety information affecting vessels in the area.
Which radar display mode is most useful for a VTS operator monitoring relative motion between vessels in a busy harbor entrance?
Answer: Relative motion mode
Relative motion mode shows vessel movements relative to a fixed reference point, making it easier to assess potential collision risks between multiple vessels.
A deep-draft vessel requests transit through a shoaling channel. The VTS operator's tide tables show minimum underkeel clearance will be 0.5 meters at passage time. What factor should the operator consider first?
Answer: The vessel's squat effect at the planned transit speed
Squat effect reduces underkeel clearance at speed and must be factored in when assessing whether a deep-draft vessel can safely transit a channel.
A VTS operator is managing traffic during a period of reduced visibility. Which action best supports safe vessel movement?
Answer: Implementing a one-way traffic flow in the main channel and advising vessels accordingly
Implementing one-way traffic flow and advising vessels reduces collision risk in restricted visibility without unnecessarily halting all operations.
Under 33 CFR Part 161, which vessels are required to participate in a VTS in US waters?
Answer: Self-propelled vessels of 300 GT or more engaged in commercial service
Under 33 CFR Part 161, self-propelled vessels of 300 GT or more in commercial service are generally required to participate in US VTS.
A vessel operating in a VTS zone reports a medical emergency onboard. The VTS operator's immediate priority should be to:
Answer: Relay the medical emergency to the Coast Guard and assist in coordinating vessel movement
VTS operators relay medical emergencies to the Coast Guard and assist with vessel movement coordination while Coast Guard assumes responsibility for the SAR response.
When plotting a vessel's track on a VTS chart, the operator notices the vessel is consistently making good a course 10 degrees to the left of its reported heading. This most likely indicates:
Answer: A significant current or leeway is affecting the vessel's track
A persistent angular difference between a vessel's heading and its track made good indicates the influence of current or wind-induced leeway.