SAA Block 1 Task 13

Define the term Handoff

An action taken to transfer the radar identification of an aircraft from one controller to another if the aircraft will enter the receiving controller’s airspace and radio communications with the aircraft will be transferred.

Define the term Point Out

An action taken by a controller to transfer the radar identification of an aircraft to another controller if the aircraft will or may enter the airspace or protected airspace of another controller and radio communications will not be transferred.

Define the term Traffic

A term used by a controller to transfer radar identification of an aircraft to another controller for the purpose of coordinating separation action.

Traffic is normally issued:

1. In response to a handoff or point out,

2. In anticipation of a handoff or point out, or

3. In conjunction with a request for control of an aircraft. 

Define the term Traffic Observed

The term used to inform the controller issuing the traffic restrictions that the traffic is identified and that the restrictions issued are understood and will be complied with. 

Define the term Radar Contact

The situation which exists when the radar blip or radar position symbol of a particular aircraft is seen and identified on a radar display

Define the term Point Out Approved

The term used to inform the controller initiating a point out that the aircraft is identified and that approval is granted for the aircraft to enter the receiving controller’s airspace, as coordinated, without a communications transfer or the appropriate automated system response.

Describe when to coordinate with the receiving facility before the departure of an aircraft 

Coordinate with the receiving facility before the departure of an aircraft if the departure point is less than 15 minutes flying time from the transferring facility’s boundary unless an automatic transfer of data between automated systems will occur, in which case, the flying time requirement may be reduced to 5 minutes or replaced with a mileage from the boundary parameter when mutually agreeable to both facilities.

State the methods used to transfer radar identification of an aircraft.

1. Physically point to the target on the receiving controller’s display. 

2. Use landline voice communications. 

3. Use automation capabilities. 

State the order information is to be relayed when making a handoff/point out/issuing traffic restrictions and state the appropriate Phraseology for each as applicable:  

• Handoff: Position, squawk, callsign, type aircraft, altitude, pertinent information like destination/direction of flight. 

• Point Out: Position, squawk, type aircraft, altitude, pertinent information. 

• Issuing Traffic Restrictions: Position in relation to a clock, distance in miles, direction of flight, altitude.

When using the term ‘traffic” describe who will issue restrictions:  

The receiving controller will issue the restrictions

State the transferring controller’s responsibilities during a handoff/point out

Transfer control of an aircraft only after eliminating any potential conflict with other aircraft for which you have separation responsibility. 

State the receiving controller’s responsibilities during a handoff/point out

Assume control of an aircraft only after it is in your area of jurisdiction unless specifically coordinated or as specified by letter of agreement or a facility directive. 

Describe when automated point outs are authorized between NAC/SAC/AUX AR and STARS commands 

The initiating controller must ensure the data block contains accurate scratch pad, type aircraft, valid Mode C altitude, and requested or assigned altitude information are correct prior to initiating the point out.