What is one method for identifying an aircraft using Secondary Radar Identification?

What is one method for identifying an aircraft using Secondary Radar Identification?

• A. Request the pilot to provide their flight plan
• B. Request the pilot to activate the "IDENT" feature of their transponder
• C. Use visual identification from the control tower
• D. Track the flight path on a moving map display

Answer: (B)

The method of requesting the pilot to activate the "IDENT" feature of their transponder is a valid technique for identifying an aircraft using secondary radar. When a pilot activates the IDENT feature, the aircraft's transponder transmits a special signal that highlights its return on radar displays, making it easier for air traffic controllers to confirm the identity and location of the aircraft. This feature is particularly useful in busy airspace where multiple aircraft may be present, as it helps reduce the chances of confusion between different targets on the radar screen. The other options, while they may assist in identification, do not specifically pertain to the secondary radar identification process. For instance, asking a pilot to provide their flight plan relies on communication rather than transponder technology, and visual identification from the control tower is not as precise or reliable as the feedback provided by activating the IDENT feature. Additionally, tracking a flight path on a moving map display relies on previous data rather than real-time transponder signals for immediate identification.

The method of requesting the pilot to activate the "IDENT" feature of their transponder is a valid technique for identifying an aircraft using secondary radar. When a pilot activates the IDENT feature, the aircraft's transponder transmits a special signal that highlights its return on radar displays, making it easier for air traffic controllers to confirm the identity and location of the aircraft. This feature is particularly useful in busy airspace where multiple aircraft may be present, as it helps reduce the chances of confusion between different targets on the radar screen.

The other options, while they may assist in identification, do not specifically pertain to the secondary radar identification process. For instance, asking a pilot to provide their flight plan relies on communication rather than transponder technology, and visual identification from the control tower is not as precise or reliable as the feedback provided by activating the IDENT feature. Additionally, tracking a flight path on a moving map display relies on previous data rather than real-time transponder signals for immediate identification.