Air Traffic Controller Aptitude Test

Question 1: Spatial Orientation & Compass Directions An aircraft is flying due North. It executes a 90-degree turn to the right, followed by a 180-degree turn, and finally a 90-degree turn to the left. What direction is the aircraft facing now?

Question 2: Radar Separation & Distance Logic Look at the radar screen graphic below. Aircraft A is flying at 300 knots, and Aircraft B is flying at 200 knots along intersecting paths. If both maintain speed, which aircraft will cross the intersection point first?

Question 3: Visual Pattern Recognition (Runway Alignment) Four aircraft are approaching parallel runways under low visibility. Based on the alignment indicators in the graphic, which aircraft is correctly lined up with the centerline?

Question 4: Multi-Tasking & Priority Decision Making You are managing a ground frequency. You receive three simultaneous requests: An emergency medical helicopter requesting immediate landing clearance. A scheduled commercial flight requesting pushback approval. A baggage tractor asking for runway-crossing permission. In what order should you handle these requests?

Question 5: Mental Math & Altitude Separation Flight 402 is cruising at FL330 (33,000 feet) and is instructed to climb to FL370 (37,000 feet). If the aircraft climbs at an average rate of 1,500 feet per minute, how many minutes will it take to reach its target altitude?

Question 6: Logical Flow / Flowchart Interpretation Follow the decision tree flowchart below for handling runway incursions. If a landing clearance has been issued, but a vehicle crosses the holding point unexpectedly, what is the mandatory immediate action?

Question 7: Working Memory & Visual Sequence Tracking Study the sequence of flashing runway lights for 3 seconds. Based on the pattern shown, what color and position should the next light in the sequence be?

Question 8: Speed and Time Estimation An aircraft is 90 nautical miles away from the airport terminal and flying at a ground speed of 300 knots (nautical miles per hour). Exactly how many minutes until it reaches the station?

Question 9: Visual Perspective Shift (Elevation vs. Plan View) The image on the left shows a 3D profile view of three aircraft stacked vertically. Which option on the right represents the correct top-down radar view of these same aircraft?

Question 10: Attention to Detail / Code Verification Compare the clearance delivery string on the left with the pilot readback string on the right. Identify if there is any discrepancy in the transponder squawk code. Clearance: Climb to FL240, Squawk 5421 Readback: Climb to FL240, Squawk 5412