What action are pilots authorized to take when a Resolution Advisory (RA) is issued?

When a Resolution Advisory (RA) is issued, pilots are authorized to deviate from their current Air Traffic Control (ATC) clearance as necessary. This action is crucial because RAs are designed to prevent mid-air collisions and ensure safety by directing pilots to take immediate evasive action. The TCAS (Traffic Collision Avoidance System) generates these advisories based on the aircraft's proximity to other aircraft, and compliance with the RA takes precedence over standard ATC instructions.

The need to prioritize safety in potentially hazardous situations means that following the RA is imperative, even if it means deviating from existing clearances. Pilots are trained to understand that an RA represents a critical safety directive, and their primary focus should be on executing it to maintain safe separation from other aircraft.

In contrast, adhering strictly to an ATC clearance during an RA could lead to dangerous situations, undermining the very purpose of the advisory. Seeking clarification from ATC or consulting the aircraft handbook may also be beneficial, but these actions would not ensure immediate responsiveness to the RA's instructions when time is of the essence.