What is the standard call-sign procedure when addressing a departing aircraft?

• A. Use the aircraft's call sign or tail number followed by the clearance.
• B. Use a generic 'aircraft' label.
• C. The controller's own call sign only.
• D. Use only the flight number and no clearance.

Answer: (A)

Clear identification of the departing aircraft before issuing instructions is essential so the right airplane receives the clearance and pilots understand exactly who is being addressed. The standard practice is to address the aircraft by its call sign, or by its tail number (registration) if a call sign isn’t available, and then give the clearance. This ensures unambiguous communication in busy airspace and prevents confusion between multiple aircraft.

Using a generic label like “aircraft” doesn’t tie the instruction to a specific airplane, and relying only on the controller’s own call sign or giving just a flight number without a clearance would fail to identify the intended aircraft and omit the required instruction.