What are the three key phases of LZ/PZ operations?

• A. Planning, Briefing, Executing
• B. Selecting, Marking, Controlling
• C. Choosing, Marking, Regulating
• D. Selecting, Controlling, Marking

Answer: (B)

The three phases focus on how an LZ/PZ is prepared and used: selecting the landing zone, marking it, and controlling it.

Selecting means choosing the best site based on practical factors like size and shape, terrain and slope, obstacles, debris, rotor wash, wind and weather, approach and departure paths, and security threats. The goal is to pick a zone that allows safe, reliable aircraft access and egress and suits the mission.

Marking is how you make the chosen zone visible and identifiable to pilots in all conditions. This includes ground markings, panels, lights, reflective markers, and signaling methods such as smoke or infrared markers. Clear marking reduces confusion and helps pilots steer precisely to the drop-off or pickup point.

Controlling the LZ/PZ is the ongoing management during the operation. It involves coordinating aircraft, maintaining safe airspace, communicating with crews, guiding, directing movements on the ground, and ensuring that the zone remains secure and clear as aircraft come and go.

Other options mix general mission steps or use different terms that don’t fit the standard three-phase sequence for LZ/PZ operations.