Which statement is true regarding automatic track initiation prerequisites?

Which statement is true regarding automatic track initiation prerequisites?

• A. Must have a stored flight plan and last 2 numbers of the assigned beacon code must not be '00'
• B. Requires immediate radar contact at all times
• C. Requires flight plan to be filed within 5 minutes of takeoff
• D. Is independent of beacon code values

Answer: (A)

Automatic track initiation depends on having two reliable anchors: a stored flight plan and a valid beacon code. The stored flight plan means the system already has the aircraft’s intended route and identity in its data base, so radar returns can be linked to the correct flight and handed off properly as it progresses. The beacon code part means the transponder is transmitting a real four-digit code that isn’t just a placeholder; the last two digits being '00' indicates an unassigned or invalid code, which would prevent the system from confidently associating radar data with a specific aircraft. With both pieces in place, the radar can automatically create and maintain a track for that aircraft, enabling proper identification and monitoring. Other statements aren’t correct because ATI isn’t contingent on always having immediate radar contact, nor on a strict five-minute filing window after takeoff, and it isn’t independent of beacon code values. The beacon code plays a crucial role in generating and maintaining the track.

Automatic track initiation depends on having two reliable anchors: a stored flight plan and a valid beacon code. The stored flight plan means the system already has the aircraft’s intended route and identity in its data base, so radar returns can be linked to the correct flight and handed off properly as it progresses. The beacon code part means the transponder is transmitting a real four-digit code that isn’t just a placeholder; the last two digits being '00' indicates an unassigned or invalid code, which would prevent the system from confidently associating radar data with a specific aircraft. With both pieces in place, the radar can automatically create and maintain a track for that aircraft, enabling proper identification and monitoring.

Other statements aren’t correct because ATI isn’t contingent on always having immediate radar contact, nor on a strict five-minute filing window after takeoff, and it isn’t independent of beacon code values. The beacon code plays a crucial role in generating and maintaining the track.