The flight departed at 1600z demonstrates the use of which time standard?

• A. Zulu Time
• B. Coordinated Universal Time
• C. Greenwich Mean Time
• D. Pacific Time

Answer: (A)

In aviation, times are standardized to a universal reference called Zulu time, which is Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). When you see 1600z, the 'z' flags Zulu, meaning 16:00 in UTC. This single reference keeps everyone on the same page regardless of local time zones or daylight saving. Greenwich Mean Time is an older naming for a similar reference, but in modern practice the aviation term you’ll see is Zulu time. Pacific Time is a local time zone and would not be universally understood for international flights.