FAA Ground School Practice Test

What best describes basic radar service in the terminal radar program?

1. Sequencing only

2. Traffic advisories only

3. Safety alerts and limited vectoring

4. Landing clearance and safety actions

The correct answer is: Safety alerts and limited vectoring

Basic radar service in the terminal radar program is designed to enhance safety and efficiency within controlled airspace by providing certain essential services to aircraft. The correct choice highlights that this service includes safety alerts and limited vectoring. Safety alerts are crucial as they inform pilots of potential conflicts with other aircraft or significant weather conditions that could jeopardize safety. This allows for proactive measures to be taken, ultimately reducing the risk of accidents. Limited vectoring refers to the provision of headings to assist aircraft in maintaining safe separation from other traffic and navigating effectively within the terminal airspace. It supports the sequencing of arrivals and departures but is not as comprehensive as full air traffic control guidance. While other options mention aspects relevant to terminal operations, they do not encompass the comprehensive nature of the basic radar service. For instance, sequencing only would imply a narrow focus on organizing the order of aircraft, and traffic advisories would not fully address the safety component provided by alerts and vectoring. Similarly, landing clearance and safety actions encompass a broader range of responsibilities that go beyond basic radar service.