Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) PracticeTest

What does basic radar service in the terminal area mainly provide?

1. Traffic advisories and limited vectoring to VFR aircraft

2. Full radar coverage for all aircraft

3. Weather updates and navigation assistance

4. Radar separation for IFR aircraft only

The correct answer is: Traffic advisories and limited vectoring to VFR aircraft

Basic radar service in the terminal area primarily provides traffic advisories and limited vectoring to VFR (Visual Flight Rules) aircraft. This service is essential in maintaining situational awareness for pilots operating under VFR, allowing them to be informed of nearby traffic that may affect their flight. While basic radar service does not guarantee full radar coverage or the level of separation provided to IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) aircraft, it enhances safety by giving pilots helpful information regarding other aircraft in the vicinity. The concept of limited vectoring is particularly important, as it allows the radar controller to provide navigational assistance to VFR aircraft without taking them completely under radar control, which could be inappropriate for all VFR operations. This balance ensures that VFR pilots can maintain their own navigation while receiving valuable input from air traffic controllers. Other options focus on different aspects of radar services but do not accurately describe the primary function of basic radar service in the terminal area. For instance, full radar coverage for all aircraft is not achievable in every terminal area, and the service does not focus on weather updates or navigation assistance beyond the advisory role. Additionally, radar separation for IFR aircraft is a function of more advanced radar service levels, not basic service. The answer chosen aptly captures the essence of what