In a head-on encounter, what should each pilot do?

• A. Alter course to the left.
• B. Maintain heading and speed.
• C. Alter course to the right.
• D. Land immediately.

Answer: (C)

When two aircraft are on a head-on collision course, the proper action is for both to turn to the right. This follows the standard deconfliction rule: turning right leads each aircraft to pass on the other’s right side, creating a predictable and safer separation path for both pilots. Maintaining heading and speed would not reduce the risk of collision, and turning to the left isn’t the agreed-upon convention for head-on avoidance. Landing immediately doesn’t address the immediate need to diverge and can create other hazards. So turning right is the quickest, most consistent way to avoid a collision in this scenario.