Frequently asked questions

Q. What does it mean to “track” an aircraft?

A. It means taking ownership of that aircraft. This will be visible to everyone else.

Q. What does it mean to “drop track” on an aircraft.

A. It means relinquishing ownership of an aircraft. Only then can someone else “track” the aircraft.

Q. Why can’t I open a datatag on a target squawking 1200 “V”?
A. Because you don’t really know who he is until you radar identify him.

Q. How do I radar identify an aircraft?

A. 1) Type the CALLSIGN+ to radioselect the aircraft. 2) press <F9>+ to assign a beacon code. 3) Read the beacon code from the RA. 4) Assign the beacon code to the aircraft. 5) He will tag up as soon as he sets his transponder to the assigned code.

Q. How can I tell who someone is if they are squawking 1200 or in “squawk standby” mode?

A. You cannot.

Q. How can I perform functions on aircraft that have not yet been radar identified, or who do not have open datatags?

A. By radioselecting them first, and using the <asel> key after each command.