ADX

When you start your schooling, the first two weeks will be heavily focused on preparing for the Aircraft Dispatch Knowledge Exam (ADX). It is an 80-question, standardized multiple-choice test that has a 3 1/2 hour time limit. The questions and answer choices, along with the figures, diagrams, and images that are utilized as references for the test are widely known, and published in a variety of industry test-prep books, software, and mobile device applications. You need a passing score of 70% and above to continue on for the practical portion, which we will discuss in a bit.

As it IS a standardized test, the questions do not have a strong correlation of real-life dispatching skills. The ADX covers a wide range of aviation related topics that you will never do as a dispatcher. This test is the exact the same as the Air Transport Pilot (ATP) Exam that pilots must pass to fly commercially. As stated earlier, the questions and answers are published in various test-prep publications and can be passed with rote learning. It is in your best interest to read over the material before your class starts. Also, when it comes time for applying, employers do not care what you scored on your ADX or what school you attended. All they care is if you passed and have your license. If you fail your ADX you may retake it for additional $150.

Practical/Oral

The second half of your 200 hour minimum classroom training will be focused on the practical examination. The American Flight Standards Service (AFS) of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) created a practical test that is divided into six parts, as a standard to determine if the applicant is qualified to be a licensed Aircraft Dispatcher. The practical portion of the exam is a 1-on-1 interview style with an approved FAA Examiner. The six areas of testing are:

1. Flight Planning/Dispatch Release

• Regulatory Requirements
• Meteorology
• Weather Observations, Analysis and Forecasts
• Weather Related Hazards
• Aircraft Systems, Performance and Limitations
• Navigation and Aircraft Navigation Systems
• Practical Dispatch Applications
• Manuals, Handbooks, and Other Written Guidance

2. Preflight, Takeoff and Departure

• Air Traffic Control Procedures
• Airports, Crew, and Company Procedures

3. Inflight Procedures

• Routing, Re-Routing, and Flight Plan Filing
• In Route Communication Procedures and Requirements

4. Arrival, Approach, and Landing Procedures

• ATC and Air Navigation Procedures

5. Post-Flight Procedures

• Communication Procedures and Requirements
• Flight Documentation

6. Abnormal and Emergency Procedures

• Abnormal and Emergency Procedures