During Case I/II operations, some aircraft operate under the control of which officer despite CATCC control?

• A. Captain
• B. Executive Officer
• C. Air Officer
• D. Operations Officer

Answer: (C)

During Case I/II operations, the aviation commander aboard the ship takes direct responsibility for flight operations. The Air Officer is the person in charge of all aviation matters and flight operations, so in these conditions some aircraft are kept under his control to ensure rapid, prioritized decision-making and coordination with the air wing. This arrangement helps maintain the air plan and safety when normal CATCC control is stressed or when specific missions require centralized handling.

The captain oversees the ship, but does not typically direct individual aircraft in flight. The Executive Officer and Operations Officer manage broader shipboard and mission-related tasks, not the day-to-day control of aircraft traffic.