What condition must be met before APREQ for a block altitude with the next sector?

• A. Sector 66 has initiated a handoff to the next sector.
• B. The next sector has initiated a handoff.
• C. The aircraft is at cruise altitude.
• D. The pilot requests altitude.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that a block altitude across a sector boundary is coordinated only after the handoff to the next sector has begun. When Sector 66 has initiated the handoff to the next sector, the receiving controller is alerted and prepared to take over the aircraft. That shared awareness allows you to place a block altitude in place across the boundary, maintaining vertical separation and ensuring a smooth continuation of the flight as it transitions between sectors. Without that handoff being initiated, the next sector might not yet be aware of the aircraft, making an APREQ for a block altitude risky or ineffective. The other factors—whether the next sector initiates the handoff, whether the aircraft is at cruise altitude, or whether the pilot requests altitude—do not establish the necessary transfer of responsibility and readiness needed for a cross-border altitude block.