Highlighting must be used on the ACL or DL in which scenario?

• A. When any of the listed tasks are necessary but cannot be accomplished immediately.
• B. Only for route changes
• C. Only when a Point Out cannot be sent
• D. Always for all entries

Answer: (A)

Highlighting marks items on the ACL or DL that have a required action pending because it can’t be completed right away. In ERAM operations, several tasks may be listed for an aircraft, such as route changes or coordination messages. When any of these tasks must be done but cannot be carried out immediately—perhaps due to traffic constraints, sequencing, or system timing—the highlight draws attention to that item so it is prioritized for follow-up. This ensures nothing slips through the cracks and the controller can revisit the item as soon as conditions allow. It’s not applied to every entry or limited to a single task type; only when there is a needed action that is not yet possible. For example, if a route change is required but cannot be implemented immediately because another aircraft is occupying the segment, you would highlight that entry so it remains visible as a to-do.