What are operators required to ensure regarding air traffic services?

The correct understanding of the requirements for air traffic services revolves around their critical role in maintaining safety and organization within the airspace. Air traffic services are designed to ensure safe and efficient movement of aircraft, supporting functions such as traffic control, flight information, and navigational assistance.

Operators are mandated to use air traffic services for all commercial air transport flights, as these services cater to the complexities and safety requirements of commercial aviation. This necessity holds true regardless of the flight's duration—short or long flights must still operate within the prescribed service protocols to ensure safety.

Ignoring air traffic services for short flights compromises safety, as shorter routes can still encounter significant traffic, and even minor deviations or changes can lead to hazardous situations. This principle is applicable to all flights, emphasizing that air traffic services are not optional but are a fundamental aspect of aviation safety.

Furthermore, air traffic services are not merely optional during good weather. Regardless of weather conditions, these services play a vital role in preventing mid-air collisions, facilitating safe takeoffs and landings, and providing critical information to pilots.

In summary, air traffic services must always be utilized by operators for commercial air transport flights to ensure the highest safety standards, irrespective of flight duration or weather conditions.