Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) PracticeTest

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Prepare for the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) with our comprehensive test. Study with diverse and interactive exercises, multiple choice questions, and detailed explanations to enhance proficiency and readiness for your examination.

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What is the standard procedure when a pilot receives a 'go around' instruction?

  1. Land immediately

  2. Increase speed and climb away from the runway

  3. Make a 180-degree turn

  4. Descend to a lower altitude

The correct answer is: Increase speed and climb away from the runway

The correct procedure when a pilot receives a 'go around' instruction is to increase speed and climb away from the runway. A 'go around' is ordered when a landing attempt should be aborted, typically due to unsafe conditions for landing, such as obstacles on the runway, weather changes, or not being in the proper position to land. Upon receiving this command, the pilot will increase throttle to gain altitude and ensure a safe climb away from the approach path. This maneuver allows the aircraft to exit the landing sequence safely, giving the pilot time to assess the situation, receive further instructions, or prepare for another approach. This procedure focuses on establishing a safe climb profile, ensuring that the aircraft is correctly positioned for a potential subsequent approach, all while maintaining control and prioritizing safety. Other options would not provide the necessary response to a 'go around' instruction; for example, descending would be counterproductive, and making a 180-degree turn might not be safe or appropriate without additional guidance from air traffic control. Landing immediately would negate the purpose of the 'go around' instruction.