What is the primary goal of having ATC transponders in flight operations?

The primary goal of having ATC transponders in flight operations is to avoid mid-air collisions. Transponders help provide real-time location and identification of an aircraft to air traffic control (ATC) and other aircraft equipped with ADS-B. This enhances the overall safety of the airspace by allowing both controllers and pilots to see and track the positions of nearby aircraft, thereby significantly reducing the risk of collisions.

While reducing pilot workload, enhancing situational awareness, and allowing precise altitude reporting are important functions of ATC transponders, their most critical function is the contribution to collision avoidance. Through accurate positioning and identification data, transponders help ensure that aircraft can maintain safe distances from one another during flight.