What must Aero ARTCC protect until Jackson ATCT advises that an arrival aircraft is under tower control?

The correct answer is that Aero ARTCC must protect the holding pattern airspace until Jackson ATCT advises that an arrival aircraft is under tower control. This is crucial for maintaining safety and efficiency in air traffic management, particularly in areas where controlled airports operate nearby.

Holding patterns are specific flight paths designed to manage aircraft that are in a holding pattern, waiting for further instructions on landing. Until the tower controller at Jackson ATCT confirms that the aircraft is under their control, it is the responsibility of the ARTCC to ensure that the airspace remains clear and that the holding pattern is preserved.

This helps to avoid potential conflicts with other aircraft that may be approaching the airport or those already in the pattern, ensuring a seamless transition of control from ARTCC to the tower and maintaining safe separation distances. In this scenario, the management of airspace is vital, especially when considering the arrival of new traffic and the coordination between different air traffic facilities.