Which of the following is critical during a handoff between controllers?

During a handoff between controllers, clear flight intentions are critical because they ensure that both the transferring and receiving controllers are on the same page regarding the aircraft's intended actions. This includes understanding the aircraft's route, altitude, and any specific requests or instructions that may have been communicated to the flight.

A lack of clarity in flight intentions can lead to miscommunication, increased chances of airspace conflict, or even safety risks. Clear communication during the handoff reassures continuity in air traffic control and helps maintain the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations.

While proper authorization codes, flight departure times, and pilot experiences are all relevant to air traffic control operations, they do not directly correlate to the immediate need for understanding what the aircraft is planned to do during a handoff. Clear flight intentions lay the groundwork for a smooth transition and ensure that controllers can effectively manage the aircraft's flight path.