Which ATC unit do you call first at EFTA for stand clearance?

To determine which Air Traffic Control (ATC) unit to contact first for stand clearance at EFTA, it’s important to understand the roles of different ATC units. The correct choice is Academy Ground (118.700 MHz), which is specifically responsible for managing ground operations at an airport, including the movement of aircraft on taxiways and ensuring that aircraft receive clearance to move from their stands.

Stand clearance typically involves communication with ground control, as this unit oversees all movements on the airport's surface, ensuring safety and proper traffic management. It is vital for pilots to establish communication with the ground unit to receive instructions before taxiing, which is essential for maintaining safety at congested airports.

The other units mentioned have different functions: Academy Tower is primarily responsible for aircraft that are in the airspace above the airport and managed via the tower during takeoff and landing; Academy Approach handles aircraft entering or leaving the terminal airspace; while Academy Delivery is generally used for flight plan clearances rather than ground control. Thus, the priority for obtaining stand clearance should be directed to the ground control unit, making Academy Ground the correct choice.