In the KGWO departure example, filed V11 HLI requesting 90 but stopped at 70 because the CBM MOA is active. What action must the controller take?

• A. Amend altitude to 70 in the computer and forward the requested altitude of 90 to D12
• B. Maintain altitude at 90 and do nothing
• C. Cancel the departure and refile
• D. Refile to a different sector and ignore

Answer: (A)

When an MOA is active, you must operate within the current airspace constraints and still coordinate the pilot’s requested action with the next controller. In this scenario, the CBM MOA being active means the aircraft cannot be cleared to the higher altitude immediately. The controller therefore assigns the altitude that complies with the present restrictions—70—in the computer to ensure safe separation and adherence to the MOA. At the same time, the pilot’s original request to climb to 90 is not discarded; it’s forwarded to the next sector (D12) so that coordination can occur and the higher altitude can be considered again if the MOA status changes or if special clearance becomes available. This approach keeps the flight moving safely and efficiently while preserving the pilot’s planned altitude for future clearance.