Aircraft Recognition and Air Traffic Control

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on aircraft recognition and air traffic control, helping prepare for the exam.

Aircraft Classification

Classification of aircraft by weight categories: Small (up to 41,000 lbs), Large (41,000 to 300,000 lbs), Heavy (over 300,000 lbs), and Super.

Cat 1

Single propeller driven engines weighing 12,500 pounds or less, including all helicopters.

Cat 2

Primarily turboprop aircraft with two propeller-driven engines, weighing up to 12,500 pounds.

Cat 3

Any aircraft not classified as Cat 1 or Cat 2, including single propeller driven aircraft over 12,500 pounds and turbojet aircraft.

Engine Types

Three main types of aircraft engines: Piston (reciprocating), Turboprop, and Turbojet.

Wing Configurations

Three primary wing configurations: Straight, Swept Back, and Delta.

Aircraft Identifiers

Aircraft identifiers consist of a manufacturer code and model number, used for aircraft recognition.

ZULU Time

ZULU time is another term for Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), used in aviation for standardization.

Separation Categories

Same runway separation categories include Cat 1, Cat 2, and Cat 3, defined by aircraft characteristics and size.

Handoff

The process of transferring identification and control of an aircraft from one controller to another.

Point Out

Transferring identification of an aircraft to another controller without transferring communications and control.

ATC Phraseology

Standardized terminology used in air traffic control to ensure clarity and prevent miscommunications.

High Altitude Airways

Airways designated for flights above certain altitude thresholds, referred to as J and Q routes.

Magnetic Variation

The difference between true north and magnetic north, affecting navigation.

VFR vs. IFR

VFR (Visual Flight Rules) does not involve air traffic control restrictions, while IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) requires clearance from air traffic control.

Sectional Chart

A type of navigation chart that provides detailed information about topography, airspace, and navigation features.