For departures filed from 0M8 to SQS, what is the first action required?

• A. Coordinate after departure
• B. Coordinate with Sector 67 first to block airspace
• C. Clear as filed
• D. Request radar identification only

Answer: (B)

Coordinating with the responsible sector to block airspace is the immediate step when a departure will move into another controller’s airspace. For departures from 0M8 to SQS, you must first contact Sector 67 to block the airspace along the planned route. This pre-departure coordination ensures the en route controller is aware of the aircraft and can assign a clean handoff and any required routing or altitude restrictions before the airplane leaves the local tower’s domain. Clearing as filed without securing protection can create conflicts with other traffic or restricted airspace, and simply requesting radar identification does not provide the necessary airspace protection. The aim is a safe, orderly transition from the local departure environment into the en route structure with confirmed airspace availability.