Which item is always included in a departure clearance for relay by an FSS dispatcher?

• A. Flight strip data
• B. Airport of departure
• C. ATIS
• D. Route assignment

Answer: (B)

In a departure clearance relayed by an FSS dispatcher, the essential detail that must be included is the airport of departure. This anchors the clearance to a specific origin, ensuring the flight is correctly identified and routed from the correct location. Knowing the exact departure airport helps avoid confusion when call signs or routes could overlap and ensures proper coordination with the appropriate ATC unit as the flight transitions from the ground to air environment. Other items like weather information (ATIS), internal flight strip data, or a chosen route may appear in related communications, but they are not guaranteed elements of every relayed departure clearance.