Which facility provides en route air traffic control services for high-altitude traffic?

• A. Area Navigation Route Control Center
• B. TRACON
• C. Air Route Traffic Control Center
• D. Flight Service Station

Answer: (C)

En route air traffic control services for high-altitude traffic are provided by the Air Route Traffic Control Center. These centers handle the en route phase of flight for IFR traffic, guiding aircraft as they travel long distances between airports. Controllers monitor radar data, issue clearances, maintain separation, and coordinate handoffs from one center to the next as planes cross sector boundaries. This is the layer of ATC that covers large portions of airspace away from the airports, especially at cruise levels.

TRACON facilities handle the approach and initial departure phases around busy airports, focusing on the terminal area rather than en route segments. Flight Service Stations provide advisory services like weather briefings and flight planning assistance, but do not control air traffic. There isn’t a recognized facility called an Area Navigation Route Control Center.