When approving an altitude change that allows an aircraft to climb or descend into the sector, what must you do with the data block?

• A. Update the data block with interim or assigned altitude and advise the Radar Controller
• B. Do nothing
• C. Only update if the aircraft requests
• D. Notify supervisor

Answer: (A)

When you approve a climb or descent into your sector, you must keep the sector’s radar picture accurate by updating the data block with the aircraft’s interim or assigned altitude and informing the Radar Controller. The data block holds the aircraft’s current altitude and other target information; reflecting the approved altitude change ensures the controller sees the true altitude during the transition, supporting safe vertical separation and correct sequencing with other traffic. Proactively updating the block prevents outdated altitude from guiding decisions, reducing risk of conflicts or miscommunication. You don’t need to wait for the aircraft to request this, and notifying a supervisor isn’t required here unless there’s a separate issue.