FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Practice Exam

What happens at the end of a dispatcher's duty period?

1. The dispatcher must sign off all flight plans.

2. The dispatcher can be scheduled for additional duties.

3. The dispatcher must document their hours.

4. The dispatcher’s duties officially end, and another must take over.

The correct answer is: The dispatcher’s duties officially end, and another must take over.

At the end of a dispatcher's duty period, the dispatcher’s responsibilities officially conclude, and another qualified individual must take over their duties. This transfer is critical for maintaining safety and operational efficiency within the flight operation environment. Proper handoff procedures ensure that all pertinent flight information and any ongoing responsibilities are clearly communicated to the incoming dispatcher, allowing for a seamless transition. This diligence in procedure helps safeguard against lapses in communication or oversight that could affect flight safety and operations. The other options might address various aspects of a dispatcher's role, such as documenting hours or managing flight plans, but they do not capture the essence of what occurs at the end of a shift. Ultimately, the paramount concern is ensuring that qualified personnel are managing flight operations continuously, highlighting the importance of a structured handover process at the conclusion of each duty period.