What should you say to an aircraft when a ground interrogator appears to be inoperative?

In the scenario where a ground interrogator appears to be inoperative, the appropriate response is to communicate directly and clearly with the aircraft about the status of the interrogator system. Stating that the "(Name of facility) beacon interrogator inoperative/malfunctioning" provides the aircraft with concise and specific information regarding the equipment's operational status. This direct communication is essential for ensuring the safety and awareness of the aircraft crew, as they need to understand that the interrogator, which is crucial for secure and accurate identification and tracking, is not functioning correctly.

Using this type of communication fosters situational awareness and allows flight crews to make informed decisions based on the operational reliability of the systems they rely on. Clarity is key in aviation communications, especially when it comes to equipment functionality that can affect an aircraft’s safety.

Other options might not provide the necessary clarity. For instance, suggesting that the interrogator is functional would mislead the aircraft about the situation. Asking the aircraft to confirm the interrogator status does not provide them with the critical information they need and shifts the responsibility back to them. Saying the interrogator is experiencing issues is vague and does not convey the seriousness of it being inoperative or malfunctioning. Thus, the chosen response serves to ensure