When should you transfer control responsibility of an aircraft?

The transfer of control responsibility of an aircraft is a critical procedure in air traffic management, and it should be done upon radar handoff and frequency change. This timing ensures that there is a clear understanding of responsibility for the aircraft between the controlling air traffic controller and the receiving controller. During a radar handoff, the aircraft's position is communicated to the next controller, and the associated frequency change allows the pilot to communicate with the new controller. Together, these actions signify the handover of control, ensuring safety and continuity in air traffic operations.

While it is important for the controlling officer to have discretion in some matters, and notifying the pilot is certainly a good practice for maintaining communication and situational awareness, the formal transfer of control is specifically linked to the radar handoff and frequency change. This process eliminates ambiguity about who is responsible for the aircraft at any given moment, providing clear guidelines that enhance safety and operational efficiency.