Which assertion correctly describes the distribution of ARTCC centers in the United States?

• A. There Are 24 Centers in the United States, With 20 in the Contiguous States and 4 Outside the Mainland
• B. There Are 24 Centers in the United States, All Located on the Mainland
• C. There Are 12 Centers in the United States
• D. There Are 30 Centers Worldwide

Answer: (A)

Air Route Traffic Control Centers are arranged to ensure continuous en route control over all U.S. airspace, not just the mainland. The idea is to have centers positioned so aircraft traveling long distances can be handed off smoothly as they move across regions, including those parts of the country that aren’t part of the continental mainland. That’s why there are centers serving non-contiguous areas like Alaska, Hawaii, and U.S. territories, in addition to those in the main landmass.

Thus, the statement reflecting this setup—most centers operate within the continental United States, with a dedicated set located outside the mainland to cover Alaska, Hawaii, and other territories—best describes the distribution. The other options don’t fit because they imply the entire network is on the mainland, or they suggest unrelated global totals that don’t match how U.S. air traffic control centers are organized.