Practice question

Define the term 'Positive Control' in air traffic management.

  1. procedure ensuring an aircraft is always in contact with ATC during flight
  2. method of controlling airspeed
  3. set of regulations for altitude adjustments
  4. visual approach technique used by pilots

Answer: A — procedure ensuring an aircraft is always in contact with ATC during flight

The term 'Positive Control' in air traffic management refers to a procedure ensuring continuous contact between an aircraft and Air Traffic Control (ATC) during flight. This concept is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in the airspace system. Positive control involves the ATC's active surveillance of aircraft movements, ensuring that they are guided along their intended flight paths and maintaining safe separations from other aircraft. This continuous communication allows air traffic controllers to manage the traffic flow effectively, respond to any emergencies, and provide instructions for changes in altitude, speed, or routing if necessary. By ensuring that every aircraft is communicated with throughout the flight, the risk of conflict or incidents is significantly reduced. The other possible answers relate to different aspects of aviation but do not specifically define 'Positive Control.' For example, controlling airspeed, managing altitude adjustments, and visual approach techniques involve separate and distinct procedures that do not encompass the totality of what 'Positive Control' is designed to achieve in air traffic management.

Practice more: ATPL Air Traffic Control Practice Test →