Which airspace control elements use Coordination Altitude?

• A. CRC and TAOC only
• B. ASOC and AWACS only
• C. CRC, TAOC, ASOC, AWACS, ADAM/BAE
• D. ADAM/BAE only

Answer: (C)

Coordination Altitude is the designated altitude at which airspace control authorities hand off control of a block of airspace from one airspace control element to another, providing a common reference to keep the air picture, sequencing, and clearance procedures aligned. In a theater, every major airspace control element relies on this shared altitude to deconflict and coordinate operations as assets move between control sectors. The CRC manages the overall airspace picture and coordinates with TAOC as control boundaries shift; the TAOC synchronizes the broader airspace plan and passes control to subordinate or adjacent elements; ASOC handles airspace for close air support and must reclear or release airspace for fires as necessary; AWACS offers airborne surveillance and command and control across units, using Coordination Altitude to coordinate with ground and airborne assets; and ADAM/BAE, the automated airspace management/defense system, uses CA to ensure its automated decisions align with the other control nodes. Because all of these elements rely on a common altitude reference to manage and deconflict airspace, Coordination Altitude applies across the entire set, making it the best answer.