Departure delay information is issued to aircraft when delays exceed or are expected to exceed __ minutes.

• A. 10
• B. 15
• C. 20
• D. 30

Answer: (B)

Departure delay information is issued when delays exceed or are expected to exceed 15 minutes. This threshold of 15 minutes is established to ensure that pilots receive timely and relevant information that affects their flight planning. Providing this information allows flight crews to make informed decisions, such as notifying passengers about potential delays or adjusting fuel loads accordingly. A delay of 15 minutes is significant enough that it warrants communication, allowing the airline to manage operational efficiency and maintain safety standards. Delays shorter than this may not have a substantial impact on overall operations and may not require a formal update to the flight crew. Thus, the 15-minute mark serves as a critical point for timely communication between air traffic control and aircraft.