Operational control belongs to whom?

• A. Director of ops
• B. SOC
• C. Pilot in command
• D. Dispatch supervisor

Answer: (A)

Operational control is the authority to manage and direct flight operations for an operator, including decisions to start, continue, or terminate flights and to assign crews in a way that ensures safety and compliance. In an airline or similar operation, this authority sits with the operator’s management, typically the Director of Operations. The pilot in command has authority on a specific flight while aboard, and the dispatch supervisor handles the dispatch process, but neither holds the company‑level control to direct all operations. The Director of Operations is responsible for the overall conduct of flight operations and for authorizing them, which is why this role is the best answer.