When handing off from one center to another, which of the following should you include in your last transmission to support the handoff?

• A. The time of transfer.
• B. Next altitude only.
• C. Final altitude, intended action, and last callsign.
• D. Next destination.

Answer: (C)

Clear center-to-center handoffs rely on giving the receiving controller enough information to identify the aircraft, know its status, and anticipate its next moves. Including the final altitude provides the exact crossing or current altitude the aircraft will be at as you hand it off, which is essential for maintaining separation in the next sector. Stating the intended action tells the new controller what you expect the pilot to do next—how you want the aircraft to proceed, whether it’s to descend, turn, or continue on the filed path—so there’s continuity in the route and destination. Providing the last callsign ties the transmission to the correct aircraft, reducing confusion in a busy airspace where multiple flights are present. Together, these elements give the receiving controller a clear, actionable picture of what’s happening and what to expect, enabling a smooth transition. Relying only on the time of transfer, or only on the next altitude, or only on the next destination, leaves gaps in identification or expected behavior, which can lead to miscommunication or loss of situational awareness.