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TCAS II resolution advisory

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 18 of 26 on Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems. ACS element AM.II.I.K13 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA TCAS II computer determines that a collision or near miss is imminent and issues a resolution advisory. What does that advisory direct the pilot to do?

  1. AVisually locate the intruder aircraft
  2. BTake a specific evasive maneuver
  3. CSquawk a discrete transponder code
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Take a specific evasive maneuver

  • A — incorrect Assisting visual acquisition of an intruder is the purpose of a traffic advisory, which TCAS I also issues.
  • B — correct A resolution advisory is an aural command to the pilot to take a specific evasive action, such as DESCEND.
  • C — incorrect Selecting a code is an ordinary transponder function and is not what a resolution advisory commands.

BACKGROUND

Traffic collision avoidance systems are transponder based air-to-air monitoring and alerting systems. TCAS I identifies traffic within about 35 to 40 miles and issues traffic advisories to help pilots visually acquire an intruder; it is mandated on aircraft with 10 to 30 seats. TCAS II adds analysis of the projected flightpath of approaching aircraft and, when a collision or near miss is imminent, issues a resolution advisory, an aural command to take a specific evasive action. The computer is programmed so that an encroaching TCAS II equipped aircraft receives a resolution advisory in the opposite direction, and pilots are required to follow a resolution advisory over an ATC command.

STUDY TIP

Keep the two advisories straight: a traffic advisory only points out traffic, while a resolution advisory, available only from TCAS II, commands a maneuver.

KEY POINTS

  • A resolution advisory is an aural command to take a specific evasive action.
  • Only TCAS II issues resolution advisories; TCAS I issues traffic advisories only.
  • Pilots must follow a TCAS resolution advisory over an ATC command.

SOURCES

  • FAA-H-8083-31B ch11 "Traffic Collision Avoidance Systems (TCAS)"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.