What must students ensure about the receiving controller during an interface failure?

Ensuring that the receiving controller possesses a flight plan when appropriate is critical in the case of an interface failure. When there is a disruption in the usual communication or data flow between air traffic control systems, having the flight plan helps the receiving controller maintain situational awareness of the flight's intent. This allows them to manage the flow of air traffic more effectively and make informed decisions regarding the safety of the aircraft involved.

Having a flight plan readily available is crucial for addressing any potential issues that may arise due to the interface failure, as it contains vital information including the aircraft's route, altitude, and expected timing, which guides the controller's actions during an atypical situation. This proactive measure helps maintain safety standards and ensures that all necessary information is accessible to support the safe operation of air traffic, especially in times when systems may not be functioning as expected.