Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) PracticeTest

What is considered controlled airspace?

1. Class G airspace

2. VOR federal airways

3. Military operational airspace

4. Airports with no ATC services

The correct answer is: VOR federal airways

Controlled airspace refers to the airspace where air traffic control (ATC) services are provided to manage aircraft operations and ensure safe separation. VOR federal airways are a prime example of controlled airspace because they are specifically designed routes established to facilitate the movement of aircraft under ATC guidance. In this airspace, pilots are required to maintain communication with ATC, which enhances situational awareness and safety by providing vital information such as traffic advisories and weather updates. In contrast, other choices represent areas that do not generally involve ATC oversight. Class G airspace, for instance, is uncontrolled airspace where pilots operate independently without mandatory communication with ATC. Military operational airspace may have specific regulations, but it is not uniformly controlled airspace applicable to all civil aviation. Lastly, airports with no ATC services typically fall into the uncontrolled airspace category as they lack the necessary air traffic management resources to guide incoming and outgoing flights effectively. Thus, VOR federal airways stand out as the embodiment of controlled airspace due to the integrated ATC services provided within that environment.