What are the PF's actions when an RA is received?

What are the PF's actions when an RA is received?

• A. Autopilot disconnect; pitch and thrust as required; check clear airspace; vertical speed in green arc; return to assigned altitude after 'CLEAR OF CONFLICT' message
• B. Keep autopilot engaged and maintain current altitude
• C. Immediately descend to the lowest safe altitude
• D. Call ATC before acting

Answer: (A)

When a Resolution Advisory from TCAS is received, the pilot flying must act immediately to resolve the conflict. The proper sequence is to disconnect the autopilot so you have direct control, then apply pitch and thrust as required by the advisory to move away from the other aircraft. While doing this, scan the airspace to ensure the path is clear of traffic and keep the vertical speed within the green arc, which represents a safe, standard climb or descent rate. Once you are told you are CLEAR OF CONFLICT, you can return to your assigned altitude. This approach is necessary because RA requires rapid, precise maneuvering under pilot control, rather than waiting for autopilot or for external instructions. Keeping the autopilot engaged would delay the immediate action needed to avoid a collision, and descending to the lowest safe altitude or delaying action to contact ATC would not address the immediate safety risk.

When a Resolution Advisory from TCAS is received, the pilot flying must act immediately to resolve the conflict. The proper sequence is to disconnect the autopilot so you have direct control, then apply pitch and thrust as required by the advisory to move away from the other aircraft. While doing this, scan the airspace to ensure the path is clear of traffic and keep the vertical speed within the green arc, which represents a safe, standard climb or descent rate. Once you are told you are CLEAR OF CONFLICT, you can return to your assigned altitude.

This approach is necessary because RA requires rapid, precise maneuvering under pilot control, rather than waiting for autopilot or for external instructions. Keeping the autopilot engaged would delay the immediate action needed to avoid a collision, and descending to the lowest safe altitude or delaying action to contact ATC would not address the immediate safety risk.