What leads to the creation of an Airspace Control Order (ACO)?

The creation of an Airspace Control Order (ACO) is directly linked to the Airspace Control Plan (ACP). The ACP provides the overarching strategy and guidance regarding the use of airspace within a specific theater of operations. It establishes the framework that defines how airspace will be allocated and utilized to ensure safe and effective air operations.

The ACO is a detailed implementation of the provisions set out in the ACP and is designed to execute the airspace control measures necessary for specific operations, including the coordination of air operations to prevent conflicts between military and civilian aircraft, as well as between different military operations. Therefore, the connection between the ACP and the ACO is fundamental, as the ACO translates the concepts and strategies from the ACP into actionable directives for units and personnel involved in air operations.

In contrast, while flight safety protocols, mission planning documents, and operational readiness reviews are all important components of military operations, they do not specifically lead to the creation of an ACO. The ACP serves as the necessary foundation upon which the ACO is based, ensuring that airspace management is conducted in a structured and coordinated manner.