What are the two methods of airspace control?

What are the two methods of airspace control?

• A. Visual control and Radar control
• B. Positive control (sensors, IFF, tracking); Procedural control (ROE, ADW, WCS, SOPs).
• C. Automatic control and Manual control
• D. Direct control and Indirect control

Answer: (B)

Airspace control relies on two broad approaches: positive control and procedural control. Positive control means the airspace is actively managed through identification, tracking, and direct control of aircraft using sensors like radar, friend/foe identification (IFF), and data links. Controllers monitor each aircraft, know its identity and position, and issue clearances or intercept instructions as needed. Procedural control, on the other hand, uses established rules, procedures, and agreements—such as rules of engagement (ROE), air defense warnings (ADW), weapons control status (WCS), and standard operating procedures (SOPs)—to separate and deconflict air traffic without continuous tracking or direct hand-on-hand control. This approach is common when sensor coverage is limited, during lower-threat conditions, or when operations rely on preplanned routes and timings rather than real-time surveillance. The answer reflects that the two recognized methods are positive control and procedural control. The other terms don’t represent the standard pair of airspace-control methods.

Airspace control relies on two broad approaches: positive control and procedural control. Positive control means the airspace is actively managed through identification, tracking, and direct control of aircraft using sensors like radar, friend/foe identification (IFF), and data links. Controllers monitor each aircraft, know its identity and position, and issue clearances or intercept instructions as needed. Procedural control, on the other hand, uses established rules, procedures, and agreements—such as rules of engagement (ROE), air defense warnings (ADW), weapons control status (WCS), and standard operating procedures (SOPs)—to separate and deconflict air traffic without continuous tracking or direct hand-on-hand control. This approach is common when sensor coverage is limited, during lower-threat conditions, or when operations rely on preplanned routes and timings rather than real-time surveillance. The answer reflects that the two recognized methods are positive control and procedural control. The other terms don’t represent the standard pair of airspace-control methods.