DGCA Air Regulations: Approach Control Service Questions
12 exam-style Approach Control Service questions for the DGCA Air Regulations paper (CPL · ATPL · PPL). The first 12 are free below with answers and explanations — sign up free to practise all of them with progress tracking.
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Q1
On a non-precision approach, unless the required visual reference has been established, descent is not permitted below the:
- A MDA
- B DA
- C N/A
- D N/A
Show answer
Correct answer: A. MDA
On a non-precision approach like a VOR or NDB approach), there is a floor called the MDA — Minimum Descent Altitude. You must level off at the MDA and fly along it until you can see the runway. If you cannot see it by the missed approach point, you go around. You must NEVER go below the MDA without seeing the runway. DA is used for precision approaches like ILS — a different type of approach.
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Q2
If the crew of an arriving aircraft approaching a controlled aerodrome reports field in sight, a clearance for a visual approach may be g ranted only under certain conditions. Which is correct?
- A The reported meteorological visibility must be at least 8 km.
- B The clearance is valid only for VFR traffic.
- C ATC will ensure separation from other controlled traffic.
- D The aircraft should already be passing the Final Approach Fix FAF).
Show answer
Correct answer: C. ATC will ensure separation from other controlled traffic.
When a pilot reports field in sight and is cleared for a visual approach, ATC does not just wave goodbye and stop watching. ATC continues to provide separation from all other controlled traffic in the area. The pilot handles their own navigation visually, but ATC keeps managing the airspace around them to make sure no other aircraft gets too close. Safety is always a team effort between pilot and ATC.
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Q3
If an arriving aircraft is on a straight-in approach, when can a departing aircraft take off in any direction?
- A Until five minutes before the arriving aircraft is estimated to be over the instrument runway
- B Until ten minutes before the arriving aircraft is estimated to be over the instrument runway
- C Until two minutes before the arriving aircraft is estimated to be over the instrument runway
Show answer
Correct answer: A. Until five minutes before the arriving aircraft is estimated to be over the instrument runway
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Q4
For controlled traffic near an airport, under what circumstances can separation minima be reduced?
- A At the discretion of the air traffic controller
- B When the commander in the following aircraft has the preceding aircraft in sight and is able to maintain own separation
- C If the commander of the involved aircraft so requests
Show answer
Correct answer: B. When the commander in the following aircraft has the preceding aircraft in sight and is able to maintain own separation
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Q5
At the start of the final approach, if the controller has wind component information, they must inform aircraft of any significant changes in mean surface wind direction and speed; what is the significant change for the mean tailwind component?
- A 3kt
- B 4kt
- C 2kt
Show answer
Correct answer: C. 2kt
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Q6
The EAT must be communicated to the pilot promptly if the anticipated delay is:
- A 5 minutes or more
- B 15 minutes or more
- C 20 minutes
Show answer
Correct answer: A. 5 minutes or more
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Q7
A "Visual Approach" can be conducted under which of the following conditions?
- A During VFR flight, there should be a visibility of 5 km or more
- B During IFR flight, if the cloudbase is 1000ft more than the appropriate DA or MDA for that procedure
- C During IFR flight. if there is permanent sight on the movement area and the underlying ground
Show answer
Correct answer: C. During IFR flight. if there is permanent sight on the movement area and the underlying ground
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Q8
What is the purpose of the "Time Approach Procedure" in managing the arrival of multiple aircraft?
- A To maintain a specified speed during the approach procedure
- B To pass the specified point inbound at the previously notified tiem
- C To apply a step down descent between aircraft in the approach sequence
Show answer
Correct answer: B. To pass the specified point inbound at the previously notified tiem
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Q9
In VMC conditions during an IFR arrival procedure, who is responsible for traffic avoidance?
- A The radar controller
- B The pilot in command
- C The approach controller
Show answer
Correct answer: B. The pilot in command
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Q10
If the crew of an arriving aircraft reports "field in sight" when approaching a controlled aerodrome, a clearance for a "visual approach" may be granted under specific conditions.
- A The meteorological visibility must not be less than 8km
- B The approach must be passing the FAF
- C The air traffic controller will provide separation to other controlled traffic
Show answer
Correct answer: C. The air traffic controller will provide separation to other controlled traffic
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Q11
Which statement is accurate regarding a "visual approach" in controlled airspace (Class C)?
- A ATC will apply separation with other traffic
- B The pilot has to apply separation with other traffic
- C ATC will apply separation with other arriving traffic
Show answer
Correct answer: A. ATC will apply separation with other traffic
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Q12
What is the minimum degree of divergence required between departing aircraft for a one-minute separation after take-off?
- A 30° immediately after take-off
- B 15° immediately after take-off
- C 45° immediately after take-off
Show answer
Correct answer: C. 45° immediately after take-off
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