FEAST Pilot Aptitude Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: A series of symbols follows a specific pattern. The arrow indicates the direction of movement or change. Identify the missing element in the sequence. [Square -> Circle] :: [Triangle -> ?] Rule 1: The shape changes from angular to curved, or curved to angular. Rule 2: The number of sides decreases by one.

A Diamond
A line
An Ellipse (Correct answer)
A shape with two sides

Correct answer: An Ellipse

The first pair shows a Square (angular, 4 sides) changing to a Circle (curved, infinite/0 sides). The primary rule applied is the change from angular to curved. Applying this to the Triangle (angular, 3 sides), the logical next shape is a curved one. An Ellipse fits this rule. The second rule (sides decrease by one) is a distractor and is not consistently applied in the first example.

Question 2: The word 'AFFIRM' in ICAO radio telephony means:

I understand but cannot comply
Yes (Correct answer)
Stand by for confirmation
Negative, that is incorrect

Correct answer: Yes

'AFFIRM' is the ICAO standard word meaning 'yes', used instead of 'yes' to avoid confusion on radio frequencies.

Question 3: An aircraft is currently at coordinate D4 on a grid, heading directly North (360/0 degrees). Air Traffic Control instructs the pilot to change course to intercept a waypoint at coordinate G7. Which of the following headings is the most direct course to the new waypoint?

135 degrees
045 degrees (Correct answer)
090 degrees
315 degrees

Correct answer: 045 degrees

The aircraft is at D4 and needs to travel to G7. This requires moving 3 units to the East (from D to G) and 3 units to the North (from 4 to 7). A movement that is equal parts North and East corresponds to a Northeast direction, which is a 045-degree heading on a compass rose.

Question 4: An aircraft is given a heading change from 360 to 090. It turns right. How many degrees has it turned, and in which direction was the turn?

270 degrees to the left — completing a near-full circle
90 degrees to the right — from north (360) to east (090) is a 90-degree right turn (Correct answer)
270 degrees to the right — the long way around
90 degrees to the left — the most efficient route from 360 to 090

Correct answer: 90 degrees to the right — from north (360) to east (090) is a 90-degree right turn

From 360° (north) to 090° (east) via a right turn is 90 degrees. The question specifies it turned right, so the short right turn of 90° is correct.

Question 5: Observe the unfolded cube pattern. When this pattern is folded into a cube, which of the given options is a possible correct representation? (Image of unfolded cube with a circle, square, triangle, star, plus, and arrow + 4 folded cube options would be here). For this text-based question, let's use relationships: Face 1 has a Circle. Face 2 (right of 1) has a Square. Face 3 (right of 2) has a Triangle. Face 4 (below 2) has a Star. Face 5 (below 4) has a Plus. Face 6 (below 5) has an Arrow pointing up. Which three faces CANNOT be seen together on a folded cube?

Square, Triangle, Star
Circle, Square, Star
Circle, Plus, Arrow (Correct answer)
Square, Star, Plus

Correct answer: Circle, Plus, Arrow

In the given layout, the Circle (Face 1), Plus (Face 5), and Arrow (Face 6) are all in a line with other faces separating them. Specifically, the Circle and the Triangle are opposite faces. The Star and the Arrow are opposite faces. The Square and the Plus are opposite faces. The correct answer choice includes the Star, Plus, and Square, but the Square and Plus are on opposite sides and cannot be seen at the same time. The question asks which faces CANNOT be seen together. Circle, Plus, and Arrow are in a straight line separated by other faces; they cannot form a corner of the cube.

Question 6: Two aircraft are at the same altitude. Aircraft Uniform is at N51° E003°, heading 045. Aircraft Victor is at N53° E006°, heading 225. On what heading are the two aircraft flying relative to each other, and are they converging or diverging?

Perpendicular headings — they will cross at right angles
Parallel headings — they are flying at the same angle and not converging
They are diverging because the northbound aircraft is moving away
Reciprocal headings (045/225) — they are converging directly toward each other (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reciprocal headings (045/225) — they are converging directly toward each other

Heading 045 and heading 225 are exactly reciprocal (180° apart), and the two aircraft are positioned with Victor northeast of Uniform — meaning they are flying directly toward each other.

Question 7: A controller who performs well on single-item short-term memory tests but poorly on multi-item tests demonstrates a pattern consistent with:

Limited working memory capacity that is sufficient for simple but not complex ATC memory demands (Correct answer)
Inaccurate long-term memory consolidation
Poor initial encoding of auditory information
Superior chunking ability that artificially inflates single-item test scores

Correct answer: Limited working memory capacity that is sufficient for simple but not complex ATC memory demands

Good single-item but poor multi-item performance indicates memory capacity that is adequate for simple tasks but insufficient for the multi-element demands of real ATC.

Question 8: An instruction states: 'Vectors to final shall not be issued if the glide slope is not captured, unless an ILS hold short instruction is applied.' An aircraft on base leg has not yet captured the glide slope. A hold short instruction has been applied. Can vectors to final be issued?

Yes — the exception condition (hold short instruction applied) is satisfied, so vectors to final may be issued (Correct answer)
Yes — glide slope capture is not relevant during base leg
No — the hold short instruction cancels all normal vectoring procedures
No — vectors to final require glide slope capture regardless of other conditions

Correct answer: Yes — the exception condition (hold short instruction applied) is satisfied, so vectors to final may be issued

The rule is: vectors not permitted UNLESS glide slope captured OR hold short instruction applied. Since hold short is applied, the exception is met and vectors may be issued.

Question 9: A candidate hears: 'New clearance: climb FL240, speed 280 knots, heading 150.' Immediately after, they hear: 'Correction: climb FL250 not FL240.' The corrected clearance requires the candidate to:

Re-encode all three elements of the corrected clearance from scratch
Apply only the correction (FL250) and discard all prior memory of the clearance
Update the level to FL250 while retaining the unchanged speed and heading in memory (Correct answer)
Ask the controller to repeat the full clearance to avoid confusion

Correct answer: Update the level to FL250 while retaining the unchanged speed and heading in memory

Corrections require updating only the changed element (FL240 → FL250) while retaining the unchanged elements (speed 280, heading 150) — this tests selective updating of working memory.

Question 10: Rule: 'Speed restrictions must be maintained until 10 DME from the threshold, at which point the aircraft is cleared to accelerate to approach speed. Speed restrictions do not apply to emergency aircraft at any point.' An emergency aircraft is 6 DME from the threshold. Does the speed restriction apply?

Yes — speed restrictions protect other aircraft in the approach sequence
No — the aircraft is within 10 DME so the restriction has already been lifted
Yes — the aircraft must still follow speed restrictions until 10 DME even during emergencies
No — emergency aircraft are exempt from speed restrictions at any point (Correct answer)

Correct answer: No — emergency aircraft are exempt from speed restrictions at any point

The rule explicitly exempts emergency aircraft from speed restrictions 'at any point' — this exemption covers all situations regardless of distance from threshold.

Question 11: You are given a set of instructions for sorting flight strips. Rule A: Sort by altitude, highest to lowest. Rule B: If altitudes are equal, sort by callsign, alphabetically. Which of the following sets is sorted correctly according to the rules? Set 1: FL350-BAW123, FL350-AAL456, FL330-UAL789 Set 2: FL330-UAL789, FL350-AAL456, FL350-BAW123 Set 3: FL350-AAL456, FL350-BAW123, FL330-UAL789 Set 4: FL350-BAW123, FL330-UAL789, FL350-AAL456

Set 2
Set 4
Set 3 (Correct answer)
Set 1

Correct answer: Set 3

Rule A requires sorting by altitude from highest (FL350) to lowest (FL330). Both Set 1, 3, and 4 start with FL350, which is correct. Set 2 is incorrect as it starts with the lowest altitude. Rule B applies to the two flights at FL350. They must be sorted alphabetically by callsign. 'AAL456' comes before 'BAW123'. Therefore, Set 3 is the only one that correctly applies both rules in the correct order.

Question 12: A controller issues: 'Iberia 34 Golf, you are identified 20 miles north-east of Madrid, descend to altitude four thousand feet QNH one zero one eight, reduce speed to two two zero knots, expect ILS runway one four right.' How many separate instructions does this transmission contain?

Four — identified position, descend, speed, expect ILS
Three — descend, reduce speed, expect ILS runway (Correct answer)
One — a combined approach clearance
Two — descend and reduce speed

Correct answer: Three — descend, reduce speed, expect ILS runway

The identification of position is information, not an instruction. The three actual instructions are: descend to 4,000 ft, reduce speed to 220 kts, and expect ILS runway 14R.

Question 13: Which of the following personality traits is considered MOST crucial for an Air Traffic Controller's ability to handle high-stress, rapidly evolving situations?

An outgoing and sociable nature
Strong empathy for pilots
A high degree of creativity
Resilience and emotional stability (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Resilience and emotional stability

Resilience and emotional stability are paramount. ATCOs must remain calm, focused, and decisive under immense pressure. While other traits can be beneficial, the ability to manage stress and maintain composure is a core requirement for ensuring the safety of the airspace.

Question 14: A departure sequence has aircraft launching every 90 seconds. How many aircraft depart in 12 minutes?

9 (Correct answer)
10
8
7

Correct answer: 9

12 min = 720 sec; 720 ÷ 90 = 8, but the first departs at 0 sec so total = 9 aircraft.

Question 15: For a brief period, you see the following flight data on your screen: - DLH182: Altitude 25000ft, Speed 420kts - KLM607: Altitude 27000ft, Speed 420kts - SWR319: Altitude 25000ft, Speed 450kts Based on this information, which two aircraft were at the same altitude?

All were at different altitudes
DLH182 and SWR319 (Correct answer)
DLH182 and KLM607
KLM607 and SWR319

Correct answer: DLH182 and SWR319

This tests the ability to hold multiple data points in short-term memory and perform a comparison. The data shows that both DLH182 and SWR319 were at an altitude of 25000ft.

Question 16: You hear the following transmission from approach control: 'SAS542, expect runway 09R, wind is 110 at 8 knots. BAW771, expect runway 09L, wind is 110 at 8 knots.' A pilot asks for a readback. Which runway was assigned to BAW771?

110
09R
08L
09L (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 09L

The question requires filtering information from a transmission that contains data for multiple aircraft. The controller explicitly assigned runway 09L to the callsign BAW771.

Question 17: Which personality trait is most predictive of ATC operational safety, based on research into ATCO competencies?

Extraversion — being sociable and comfortable in team environments
Openness to experience — being creative and willing to try novel approaches
Conscientiousness — being careful, thorough, and reliable in following procedures (Correct answer)
Neuroticism — being emotionally sensitive and reactive to errors

Correct answer: Conscientiousness — being careful, thorough, and reliable in following procedures

Conscientiousness is the personality trait most consistently associated with job performance and safety in procedurally demanding roles like ATC.

Question 18: Sequence rule: Aircraft must be sequenced for the ILS as follows: Heavy aircraft first, then Medium aircraft, then Light aircraft. Within each weight category, earlier estimated arrival time (EAT) takes priority. Four aircraft have these profiles: Alpha — Medium, EAT 12:10; Bravo — Heavy, EAT 12:15; Charlie — Light, EAT 12:05; Delta — Heavy, EAT 12:08. The correct ILS sequence is:

Alpha, Delta, Bravo, Charlie
Bravo, Delta, Alpha, Charlie
Delta, Bravo, Alpha, Charlie (Correct answer)
Charlie, Delta, Bravo, Alpha

Correct answer: Delta, Bravo, Alpha, Charlie

Heavies first: Delta (12:08) before Bravo (12:15). Then Mediums: Alpha (12:10). Then Lights: Charlie (12:05). Sequence: Delta, Bravo, Alpha, Charlie.

Question 19: An aircraft at position N52° E004° is flying heading 090 at 400 kts groundspeed. After 15 minutes, its approximate longitude will be:

E006° — the aircraft has moved east approximately 2° of longitude at N52° (Correct answer)
E004° — the aircraft hasn't moved because heading 090 is parallel to the equator
E003° — the aircraft moved west because heading 090 at N52° curves poleward
E007° — moved 3° east

Correct answer: E006° — the aircraft has moved east approximately 2° of longitude at N52°

At N52°, 1° of longitude ≈ 38 NM. In 15 minutes at 400 kts, the aircraft travels 100 NM east. 100 ÷ 38 ≈ 2.6° ≈ E006°.

Question 20: A regulation states: 'Separation standards exist to prevent collisions. When separation is lost, a conflict exists.' Which conclusion is best supported by this statement?

Separation standards apply only to commercial airline operations
Conflicts occur only during poor weather conditions
All separation losses inevitably result in midair collisions
Maintaining separation standards is essential to collision prevention (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Maintaining separation standards is essential to collision prevention

The passage directly links separation standards to preventing collisions, so maintaining them is logically essential to that goal.

Question 21: Which of the following represents a primary 'cost' associated with frequent task-switching in a multitasking environment like air traffic control?

The elimination of the need for short-term memory.
A momentary loss of efficiency and increased potential for error with each switch. (Correct answer)
A reduction in the mental resources required for each task.
A gradual improvement in the accuracy of all tasks.

Correct answer: A momentary loss of efficiency and increased potential for error with each switch.

Research shows that every time a person switches between tasks, there is a 'task-switching cost' or 'cognitive switching penalty'. [4, 13, 19, 33] This cost manifests as a brief period of reduced performance, slower reaction time, and an increased likelihood of error as the brain disengages from one ruleset and engages with another. [4, 34]

Question 22: A temporary restricted airspace, "Zone Alpha," is active. It is a 20 NM wide square, with its corners at coordinates (40,40), (60,40), (60,60), and (40,60). Which of the following aircraft flight plans will penetrate the restricted zone?

Aircraft 3 flying in a straight line from (45,65) to (45,35). (Correct answer)
Aircraft 4 flying in a straight line from (65,45) to (75,45).
Aircraft 1 flying in a straight line from (10,50) to (35,50).
Aircraft 2 flying in a straight line from (50,10) to (50,35).

Correct answer: Aircraft 3 flying in a straight line from (45,65) to (45,35).

The restricted zone covers the area where x-coordinates are between 40 and 60, and y-coordinates are between 40 and 60. Aircraft 3's flight path starts at (45,65), which is outside the zone (y > 60), and flies south to (45,35), which is also outside (y < 40). However, its path at x=45 crosses through the entire y-range of the zone from y=60 to y=40, thus penetrating the restricted airspace.

Question 23: An air traffic controller is actively managing a developing conflict between two aircraft on converging courses. At the same moment, a pilot on the frequency makes a non-urgent, routine request for a frequency change for a sector they will not enter for another 15 minutes. Which cognitive skill is most critical for the controller to apply immediately?

Task prioritization and selective attention (Correct answer)
Procedural memory for standard phraseology
Auditory vigilance for specific callsigns
Long-term memory recall of flight plans

Correct answer: Task prioritization and selective attention

The controller must immediately prioritize the safety-critical task (the conflict) over the non-urgent routine request. This requires selective attention, the ability to direct focus to relevant stimuli while ignoring irrelevant ones, and effective task prioritization to manage cognitive workload. [23]

Question 24: A candidate scores well on focused attention tests (single task) but poorly on divided attention tests (two simultaneous tasks). This pattern most likely indicates:

A problem with processing speed that only emerges under complex conditions
Strong single-task performance but limited attentional spare capacity for concurrent demands (Correct answer)
That the candidate strategically chooses to focus on one task at a time
That the single-task test was too easy and the dual-task test too hard to be valid

Correct answer: Strong single-task performance but limited attentional spare capacity for concurrent demands

This pattern shows the candidate can concentrate but has limited capacity to distribute attention across simultaneous tasks — a significant gap for ATC work.

Question 25: In 3D airspace visualisation, an aircraft climbing at 2,000 ft/min and flying at 360 kts groundspeed has a climb gradient (altitude gained per nautical mile) of approximately:

600 ft/NM — direct ratio of speed to climb rate
200 ft/NM — based on a 10-NM/min speed
100 ft/NM — standard instrument approach gradient
333 ft/NM — 2,000 ft/min ÷ 6 NM/min = 333 ft/NM (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 333 ft/NM — 2,000 ft/min ÷ 6 NM/min = 333 ft/NM

360 kts = 6 NM/min. Climbing at 2,000 ft/min over 6 NM/min = 2,000 ÷ 6 = 333 ft/NM.

Question 26: In the FEAST DART (Dynamic ATC Radar Test), the primary objective is to guide aircraft through a sector. Which of the following is a key performance metric?

Ensuring every aircraft exits at the exact planned time.
Keeping all aircraft on the shortest possible route.
Using the minimum number of commands for each aircraft.
Preventing any loss of standard separation between aircraft. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Preventing any loss of standard separation between aircraft.

The absolute top priority and core task in any air traffic control simulation like DART is to maintain safety by ensuring that the minimum separation standards (vertical and horizontal) are never infringed. While efficiency is important, it is always secondary to safety.

Question 27: A conflict recognition task shows 8 aircraft. Two of them will reach minimum separation in 4 minutes but are not yet in conflict. A candidate who takes no action for 3 minutes before acting is demonstrating:

Efficient prioritisation — handling other tasks first before the urgent conflict develops
Correct behaviour — waiting confirms the conflict is real before issuing instructions
Late conflict recognition — the situation should have been acted on as soon as the converging trend was identified (Correct answer)
Appropriate delayed response — action at 1 minute before conflict is standard ATC procedure

Correct answer: Late conflict recognition — the situation should have been acted on as soon as the converging trend was identified

Waiting 3 of 4 available minutes before acting on an identified converging trend is dangerously late — early action ensures effective resolution with maximum safety margins.

Question 28: During a simulated ATC task, a candidate is given a primary radar-monitoring task plus a secondary arithmetic task. Their performance on the radar task is measured with and without the arithmetic task running. The purpose of this dual-task design is to:

Test whether candidates can prioritise safety tasks over administrative ones
Measure the cost of the secondary task on primary task performance — revealing attentional spare capacity (Correct answer)
Assess arithmetic ability under the pressure of a distracting task
Evaluate how quickly candidates switch between two completely unrelated tasks

Correct answer: Measure the cost of the secondary task on primary task performance — revealing attentional spare capacity

Dual-task designs measure the 'attentional cost' of concurrent demands, revealing how much spare capacity a candidate retains during the primary task.

Question 29: On a radar display, an aircraft is at bearing 270 (due west) from a VOR beacon at 20 NM. Another aircraft is at bearing 090 (due east) from the same VOR at 15 NM. Both are at the same altitude. The distance between them is approximately:

25 NM — only the longer radial matters
20 NM — average of the two distances
35 NM — they are on opposite sides of the VOR on the same east-west line (Correct answer)
5 NM — the difference of the two distances

Correct answer: 35 NM — they are on opposite sides of the VOR on the same east-west line

Aircraft A is 20 NM west of the VOR and Aircraft B is 15 NM east of the VOR. On the same straight line, total separation = 20 + 15 = 35 NM.

Question 30: The phenomenon where an air traffic controller becomes so focused on resolving a single complex problem that they fail to perceive other important, clearly visible information on their display, such as an alert for a different aircraft, is known as:

Situational compliance
Attentional tunneling (Correct answer)
Cognitive dissonance
Procedural drift

Correct answer: Attentional tunneling

Attentional tunneling, also known as cognitive tunneling, is a form of selective attention where an individual focuses so intently on one stimulus or task that they become functionally blind to other, equally or more important, stimuli. [6, 11, 14] This is a critical risk in high-stakes environments like air traffic control.

Question 31: A read-back sequence includes: 'Runway 27, cleared to land, wind 250 degrees 12 knots.' You are asked 30 seconds later to recall the wind direction. The wind direction was:

270 degrees
250 degrees (Correct answer)
210 degrees
280 degrees

Correct answer: 250 degrees

The wind direction stated was 250 degrees. Confusion with runway 27 (270 degrees magnetic) is a classic interference error in ATC short-term memory.

Question 32: A controller receives: 'Cleared to descend FL180, turn right heading 270, reduce speed 250 knots, contact Approach 119.7.' They read back only: 'Descend FL180, right 270, 250 knots, 119.7.' What is missing from this read-back?

The word 'contact' and 'Approach' before '119.7' — the instruction to call Approach Control (Correct answer)
Nothing — the read-back correctly captures all the operational elements
The word 'cleared' before 'to descend'
The aircraft's own callsign

Correct answer: The word 'contact' and 'Approach' before '119.7' — the instruction to call Approach Control

The read-back omits 'contact Approach' — the full instruction includes both the frequency AND the instruction to call Approach Control on that frequency.

Question 33: Which of the following scenarios presents the most complex dynamic radar conflict management challenge?

An aircraft deviating for weather towards an area with no other traffic.
Two aircraft on reciprocal headings at different altitudes.
Three aircraft at the same altitude with intersecting flight paths near a sector boundary. (Correct answer)
A fast aircraft overtaking a slower aircraft on the same track and at the same altitude.

Correct answer: Three aircraft at the same altitude with intersecting flight paths near a sector boundary.

This scenario is the most complex because it involves multiple potential conflicts (three pairs of aircraft), requires managing multiple aircraft simultaneously, and adds the complexity of coordinating with another controller due to the proximity to the sector boundary. This increases workload and requires a more strategic solution than a simple pairwise conflict.

Question 34: Rule: Aircraft may only enter sector Alpha if: (1) altitude is between FL200 and FL400, and (2) the aircraft is on an approved route. Aircraft X is at FL250 on an approved route. Aircraft Y is at FL180 on an approved route. Aircraft Z is at FL300 on a non-approved route. Which aircraft may enter sector Alpha?

Aircraft X only (Correct answer)
Aircraft Y and Z
Aircraft X and Z
Aircraft X and Y

Correct answer: Aircraft X only

Aircraft X meets both conditions (FL250 is within FL200-FL400, and it is on an approved route). Y fails condition 1 (FL180 is below FL200). Z fails condition 2 (non-approved route).

Question 35: During a period of unexpectedly high traffic volume, you begin to feel overwhelmed and are concerned about your ability to maintain situational awareness. Which of the following actions demonstrates the highest level of professionalism and safety-consciousness?

Continue to manage the traffic on your own, believing that the feeling will pass and that asking for help would show weakness.
Attempt to divert some of your assigned aircraft to an adjacent sector without prior coordination to reduce your workload.
Immediately inform your shift supervisor or team leader of the situation, clearly stating that you are approaching your capacity and may require assistance. (Correct answer)
Take a brief, unannounced break to clear your head, assuming your colleagues will cover for you.

Correct answer: Immediately inform your shift supervisor or team leader of the situation, clearly stating that you are approaching your capacity and may require assistance.

Self-awareness and clear communication are critical safety skills for an ATCO. Proactively informing a supervisor that you are nearing your limit allows for support to be arranged before safety is compromised. This demonstrates responsibility and a commitment to safety over personal pride. The other options are unsafe, unprofessional, or both.

Question 36: Aircraft A is at FL350 descending at 1,500 ft/min. Aircraft B is at FL290 and level. How many minutes until the two aircraft are at the same altitude?

5 min
3 min
6 min
4 min (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 4 min

Altitude difference = 6,000 ft; time = 6,000 ÷ 1,500 = 4 minutes.

Question 37: Rule: A squawk code of 7700 indicates general emergency. A squawk code of 7600 indicates communication failure. A squawk code of 7500 indicates hijack. A radar target appears with squawk 7600. The controller's correct interpretation is:

The aircraft has lost radio communication and cannot be contacted on the normal frequency (Correct answer)
The aircraft has been hijacked
The aircraft has declared a general emergency
The aircraft's transponder is malfunctioning

Correct answer: The aircraft has lost radio communication and cannot be contacted on the normal frequency

Squawk 7600 specifically means communication failure (NORDO — no radio). This is distinct from 7700 (emergency) and 7500 (hijack).

Question 38: In the vicinity of airports where they are located, airport traffic control towers (ATCT) offer both proactive and preventive control of VFR and IFR aircraft.

False
True (Correct answer)

Correct answer: True

Airport Traffic Control Towers (ATCTs) provide both proactive and preventive control for all aircraft, regardless of whether they are operating under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) or Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This control ensures the safe and efficient movement of air traffic within the airport's airspace and on the ground. Controllers issue instructions and advisories to prevent conflicts and maintain separation.

Question 39: A FEAST candidate is asked: 'How do you typically respond when a supervisor criticises your work?' The best response in the context of ATCO selection is:

I listen carefully, ask for clarification if needed, and use the feedback to improve my performance (Correct answer)
I explain my reasoning to the supervisor to ensure they understand my decision-making process
I accept the criticism without question because the supervisor is always right
I acknowledge the criticism privately but continue working in the way I believe is correct

Correct answer: I listen carefully, ask for clarification if needed, and use the feedback to improve my performance

Openness to feedback, combined with a constructive response and willingness to improve, reflects the professional resilience and growth mindset valued in ATCO roles.

Question 40: Imagine a 3D radar display showing an aircraft at coordinates East 3, North 5, Altitude 8 (in arbitrary units). The aircraft moves: +2 East, -1 North, +2 Altitude. What are its new coordinates?

East 5, North 4, Altitude 6
East 5, North 6, Altitude 10
East 5, North 4, Altitude 10 (Correct answer)
East 1, North 4, Altitude 10

Correct answer: East 5, North 4, Altitude 10

East: 3+2=5. North: 5+(-1)=4. Altitude: 8+2=10. New position: East 5, North 4, Altitude 10.

Question 41: What is 'progressive taxi' instruction?

Instructions to taxi progressively faster to clear the runway
Taxi instructions for large transport aircraft only
Taxi at a speed appropriate to conditions
Step-by-step taxi directions given by ATC to an unfamiliar or confused pilot (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Step-by-step taxi directions given by ATC to an unfamiliar or confused pilot

Progressive taxi is a service where ATC provides turn-by-turn taxi instructions for pilots unfamiliar with an airport's ground layout.

Question 42: You are told the following sequence: 'Squawk 3341, heading 085, altitude 7500 feet, callsign Golf-Foxtrot-Tango.' After a 15-second delay, you must recall: what was the heading?

095
085 (Correct answer)
075
055

Correct answer: 085

The heading stated was 085. Short-term memory recall requires holding exact numerical values for brief periods without re-encoding.

Question 43: A passage states: 'ATIS broadcasts provide pilots with current airport information including weather, active runways, and NOTAMs before they contact ATC.' The word 'NOTAMs' most likely refers to:

Notices about temporary flight restrictions and aviation hazards (Correct answer)
Aircraft identification callsigns used by ATC
Controller work shift schedules and staffing levels
Types of onboard navigation and communications equipment

Correct answer: Notices about temporary flight restrictions and aviation hazards

NOTAMs (Notices to Air Missions) are official notices that inform pilots of hazards, temporary restrictions, and changes that affect flight operations.

Question 44: An attentional blink occurs when:

A second target is missed if it appears within 200–500 ms of a first target in a rapid stream (Correct answer)
A controller loses focus after a 90-minute monitoring period
Attention shifts suddenly from one aircraft to another causing momentary overload
A controller blinks physically and misses a radar track change

Correct answer: A second target is missed if it appears within 200–500 ms of a first target in a rapid stream

Attentional blink is a psychological phenomenon where a second target in a rapid visual stream is missed if it appears shortly after the first.

Question 45: Rule: Aircraft may fly through restricted area R-14 only if: (a) flying VFR AND (b) altitude is below 3,500 ft, OR if (c) holding a valid R-14 permit. Aircraft Kilo is IFR at 2,500 ft with no permit. Aircraft Lima is VFR at 3,000 ft with no permit. Aircraft Mike is IFR at 5,000 ft with a valid permit. Which aircraft may enter R-14?

Kilo and Lima
Lima, Mike, and Kilo
Lima and Mike only (Correct answer)
Mike only

Correct answer: Lima and Mike only

Lima is VFR at 3,000 ft (below 3,500 ft) — meets conditions (a) AND (b). Mike has a valid permit — meets condition (c). Kilo is IFR — fails condition (a); no permit — fails (c).

Question 46: A tower controller typically receives an airplane that is coming in from how many miles away?

15 miles
25 miles
none of the above
20 miles (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 20 miles

A tower controller, specifically the local controller, is responsible for aircraft operating on the runways and within the immediate vicinity of the airport. They typically receive control of an aircraft from the approach controller when the aircraft is much closer to the airport, usually within 10-20 miles, as it transitions from the approach phase to the final landing sequence. 20 miles represents a common outer boundary for tower control's direct influence on inbound aircraft.

Question 47: An air traffic control system has the following rules for prioritizing landing aircraft: 1. Aircraft with a declared emergency have the highest priority. 2. Faster aircraft have priority over slower aircraft. 3. Aircraft closer to the runway have priority over those farther away. Given the following aircraft, which one should be cleared to land FIRST? - AC123: 10 miles away, speed 180 knots, no emergency. - AC456: 8 miles away, speed 160 knots, no emergency. - AC789: 12 miles away, speed 190 knots, no emergency. - AC987: 20 miles away, speed 170 knots, declared emergency.

AC123
AC987 (Correct answer)
AC789
AC456

Correct answer: AC987

The rules are hierarchical. The first rule states that an aircraft with a declared emergency has the highest priority, overriding all other factors. AC987 has declared an emergency, so it must be cleared to land first, regardless of its speed or distance from the runway.

Question 48: What is the purpose of a 'holding pattern' assigned by ATC?

To allow aircraft to perform weather avoidance maneuvers
To keep aircraft in a designated area while awaiting further clearance or sequencing (Correct answer)
To reduce aircraft fuel consumption during descent
To separate aircraft transitioning between altitudes

Correct answer: To keep aircraft in a designated area while awaiting further clearance or sequencing

A holding pattern keeps aircraft in a defined racetrack circuit while ATC sequences them for approach or resolves a traffic or weather conflict.

Question 49: Two aircraft are on crossing tracks at the same altitude. Aircraft P is northbound (heading 000) and Aircraft Q is eastbound (heading 090). Aircraft P is currently 10 NM south of the intersection. Aircraft Q is currently 10 NM west of the intersection. Both are at the same speed. At the intersection, the separation will be:

7 NM — the diagonal distance at the moment of first proximity
0 NM — they will arrive at the intersection at exactly the same time given equal speed and equal distance (Correct answer)
5 NM — half the initial distance from the intersection
10 NM — the distance between their starting positions

Correct answer: 0 NM — they will arrive at the intersection at exactly the same time given equal speed and equal distance

Equal distance (10 NM each) from the intersection at equal speed means both aircraft arrive simultaneously — separation = 0 NM at the intersection point.

Question 50: Complete the sentence: 'Just as a ship's captain is responsible for the safety of the vessel at sea, an air traffic controller is primarily responsible for ___'

Training pilots to use correct radiotelephony phraseology
Maintaining safe separation between all aircraft under their control (Correct answer)
Selecting the most fuel-efficient routes for departing aircraft
Writing detailed flight plans for aircraft in their sector

Correct answer: Maintaining safe separation between all aircraft under their control

The core duty of an air traffic controller is to maintain safe separation between aircraft, which parallels a captain's duty to keep a ship and its passengers safe.

Question 51: You receive: 'Traffic information: Airbus 320, 12 o'clock, 5 miles, westbound, FL220, descending.' Five seconds later you must report the aircraft type, direction, and level. The correct recall is:

Airbus 320, westbound, FL220 descending (Correct answer)
Airbus 320, eastbound, FL220 climbing
Airbus 320, westbound, FL200 level
Boeing 737, westbound, FL220 descending

Correct answer: Airbus 320, westbound, FL220 descending

The type was A320, direction westbound, level FL220 descending — all three elements must be retained accurately for 5 seconds.

Question 52: A controller must track: Aircraft A's cleared level, Aircraft B's speed restriction, Aircraft C's transponder code, and Aircraft D's estimated time at a waypoint. Which memory technique best supports accurate multitask tracking?

Memorise all data verbally, repeating it mentally between transmissions
Rely exclusively on the radar display without additional tracking aids
Write data points on a notepad only when reminded by the pilot
Maintain flight progress strips updated in real time for each aircraft (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Maintain flight progress strips updated in real time for each aircraft

Flight progress strips are the standard tool for tracking multiple aircraft parameters simultaneously, reducing reliance on working memory alone.

Question 53: Which word is most similar in meaning to 'sequencing' as it is used in air traffic control operations?

Accelerating aircraft to reduce spacing
Randomizing the flow of arriving aircraft
Delaying aircraft until a slot opens
Ordering aircraft into a logical and efficient flow (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Ordering aircraft into a logical and efficient flow

Sequencing in ATC means arranging aircraft in a deliberate, logical order to manage arrival and departure flows efficiently.

Question 54: An aircraft at FL350 begins a descent at 1,500 ft/min toward FL100. How many minutes will the descent take?

10 minutes — 35,000 - 10,000 = 25,000 ft at 2,500 ft/min
25 minutes — 350 - 100 = 250 flight levels at 15 ft/min
17 minutes — (35,000 - 10,000) ÷ 1,500 rounded up to nearest minute
16.67 minutes — (35,000 - 10,000) ÷ 1,500 = 16.67 minutes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 16.67 minutes — (35,000 - 10,000) ÷ 1,500 = 16.67 minutes

(35,000 - 10,000) ÷ 1,500 = 25,000 ÷ 1,500 = 16.67 minutes.

Question 55: An aircraft is flying on a heading of 270 degrees. From the pilot's perspective, a landmark is observed at their 4 o'clock position. What is the approximate bearing from the aircraft to the landmark?

030 degrees
150 degrees
210 degrees
330 degrees (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 330 degrees

A heading of 270 degrees is due West. The 12 o'clock position is straight ahead (270 degrees). Each 'hour' on a clock face represents 30 degrees (360 degrees / 12 hours). The 4 o'clock position is 4 hours clockwise from 12 o'clock, which is 4 * 30 = 120 degrees. Adding this to the aircraft's heading gives 270 + 120 = 390 degrees. Since a circle is 360 degrees, the bearing is 390 - 360 = 030 degrees. However, the question asks for the bearing *from* the aircraft *to* the landmark. Looking at it from a standard compass, 4 o'clock is 120 degrees clockwise from the direction of travel. So, 270 (West) + 120 degrees = 390 degrees, which is equivalent to 30 degrees. A simpler way to think about it is: 3 o'clock is 90 degrees to the right (North, 0 degrees or 360 degrees), so 4 o'clock is another 30 degrees clockwise, making it 330 degrees.

Question 56: A pilot is questioning your instruction in a polite but firm manner, suggesting an alternative that they believe is more efficient for their flight. The frequency is moderately busy. What is the most professional response?

Ignore the pilot's transmission and focus on other aircraft to show that you are in control.
Re-issue the original instruction in a more authoritative tone to end the discussion quickly.
Immediately approve the pilot's request to avoid a lengthy conversation on a busy frequency.
Briefly and clearly state the reason for your instruction (e.g., 'Unable, for sequencing with other traffic'), then reiterate the instruction. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Briefly and clearly state the reason for your instruction (e.g., 'Unable, for sequencing with other traffic'), then reiterate the instruction.

This response demonstrates assertiveness, clear communication, and professionalism. It acknowledges the pilot's input while maintaining control of the situation by providing a concise, valid reason for the instruction. This fosters mutual respect and understanding without compromising safety or efficiency. Simply being authoritative can create an adversarial relationship, and immediately acquiescing could compromise the overall traffic plan.

Question 57: A controller manages two sectors temporarily combined. The sector has 12 aircraft. Tasks pending: update a flight progress strip, coordinate with adjacent sector, answer a pilot's query, and monitor an aircraft approaching an altitude limit. What is the correct order of priority?

Update strip → coordinate → monitor altitude → answer query
Answer query → monitor altitude → update strip → coordinate
Monitor the altitude limit → coordinate with adjacent sector → answer pilot query → update strip (Correct answer)
Coordinate with sector → update strip → answer query → monitor altitude

Correct answer: Monitor the altitude limit → coordinate with adjacent sector → answer pilot query → update strip

An approaching altitude limit is a separation risk and takes priority, followed by inter-sector coordination (affecting other traffic), then pilot query, then administrative strip update.

Question 58: You are an Air Traffic Controller in a busy sector. A junior colleague, who is still in training, makes a minor procedural error that does not create an immediate safety risk. What is the most appropriate action to take?

Immediately report the error to your shift supervisor to ensure it is officially documented.
Ignore the error, as it was minor and correcting it might undermine the trainee's confidence.
Correct the colleague over the open communication frequency so that all pilots and controllers are aware of the proper procedure.
Wait until the end of the shift, then privately and constructively discuss the error with the colleague, explaining the correct procedure and its importance. (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Wait until the end of the shift, then privately and constructively discuss the error with the colleague, explaining the correct procedure and its importance.

The most effective and professional response is to address the issue privately and constructively. This approach corrects the error, provides a valuable learning opportunity, and maintains a positive and supportive team environment. Public correction can be humiliating and counterproductive, ignoring the error is irresponsible, and immediately reporting a minor, non-safety-critical issue can be an overreaction that damages team morale.

Question 59: Aircraft are required to maintain 1,000 ft vertical separation below FL290 and 2,000 ft above FL290. If one aircraft is at FL310, what is the minimum altitude a following aircraft may fly?

FL280
FL290 (Correct answer)
FL270
FL330

Correct answer: FL290

FL310 is above FL290, so 2,000 ft separation is required: FL310 – 20 = FL290.

Question 60: Which of the following scenarios presents the most immediate risk of a collision, assuming both aircraft maintain their current heading and speed?

Aircraft A is at (1,7) heading 360. Aircraft B is at (7,1) heading 090.
Aircraft A is at (3,3) heading 045. Aircraft B is at (8,8) heading 225. (Correct answer)
Aircraft A is at (2,8) heading 180. Aircraft B is at (6,8) heading 180.
Aircraft A is at (5,5) heading 090. Aircraft B is at (5,1) heading 270.

Correct answer: Aircraft A is at (3,3) heading 045. Aircraft B is at (8,8) heading 225.

Aircraft A is heading Northeast (045) and Aircraft B is heading Southwest (225). They are on a direct reciprocal course, flying directly towards each other along the same diagonal path. This presents the most immediate collision risk. The other options describe aircraft on parallel or non-intersecting paths.

FEAST Pilot Aptitude Test

The FEAST assesses aptitude for air traffic control and pilot training, testing spatial reasoning, multitasking, memory, and English comprehension.

Questions

90 min

Time Limit

65%

To Pass

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