If a paired track exists and the controller has separation responsibility, what must they maintain?

In a situation where a paired track exists and the controller has separation responsibility, maintaining a Flight Data Block (FDB) is imperative. The FDB provides essential information regarding the aircraft's identity, altitude, course, and other relevant data that allows the controller to track the aircraft effectively. This is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient management of air traffic, especially when paired tracks are involved, as it enables the controller to maintain appropriate separation standards.

The Flight Data Block serves as a visual aid for the controller, displaying critical flight information at a glance, which aids in making informed decisions regarding aircraft separation and avoiding conflicts. Thus, having an accurate and up-to-date FDB helps controllers monitor traffic more effectively, ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

While communication with adjacent sectors, visual contact, and time-based separation can all be important aspects of air traffic management in general, the direct focus on maintaining separation responsibility in relation to paired tracks makes the FDB the primary tool for effectively managing that responsibility.