When a TA is received, what is the PF's primary action?

When a TA is received, what is the PF's primary action?

• A. Visually search for the intruding aircraft
• B. Contact ATC immediately
• C. Maintain current heading
• D. Climb to a safe altitude

Answer: (B)

When a Traffic Advisory is received, the immediate priority is to bring ATC into the loop. The PF should quickly acknowledge the TA and contact ATC to report the advisory and obtain instructions. This coordination allows ATC to assess the overall traffic picture in the area, issue any necessary vectors or altitude changes, and help maintain safe separation for all aircraft. While you’ll still want to keep eyes outside and locate the intruding aircraft to maintain situational awareness, waiting to see the traffic or making uncoordinated maneuvers without ATC guidance isn’t the safest path. Likewise, changing altitude or heading without ATC instruction can create new conflicts; you should rely on ATC’s clearance or instructions first.

When a Traffic Advisory is received, the immediate priority is to bring ATC into the loop. The PF should quickly acknowledge the TA and contact ATC to report the advisory and obtain instructions. This coordination allows ATC to assess the overall traffic picture in the area, issue any necessary vectors or altitude changes, and help maintain safe separation for all aircraft.

While you’ll still want to keep eyes outside and locate the intruding aircraft to maintain situational awareness, waiting to see the traffic or making uncoordinated maneuvers without ATC guidance isn’t the safest path. Likewise, changing altitude or heading without ATC instruction can create new conflicts; you should rely on ATC’s clearance or instructions first.