When should radio communications of an aircraft under your control be transferred?

• A. Before the aircraft enters the receiving controller's area of jurisdiction
• B. After the aircraft enters the receiving controller's area of jurisdiction
• C. Upon leaving the receiving controller's area
• D. Immediately upon entering your area of jurisdiction

Answer: (A)

The key idea is ensuring continuous radio contact as an aircraft moves from one controller’s jurisdiction to another. The transmitter and frequency switch must happen before the aircraft enters the next controller’s airspace so the receiving controller can take responsibility in time and the pilot can begin communicating on the correct frequency without a gap.

Transferring before entry ensures the receiving controller is aware of the aircraft well in advance, can coordinate the handoff, and maintain proper separation and sequencing. If you wait until after the aircraft has entered the new area, there could be a moment with no controller handling communications, increasing the risk of miscommunication or loss of situational awareness.

Leaving the area or transferring immediately upon entering your own area doesn’t align with the handoff timing required to maintain continuous, orderly control as the aircraft crosses into the next jurisdiction.