Flight progress data must be passed at least how many minutes before the aircraft is estimated to enter the receiving facility's area?

The correct answer is based on the standard operational procedures for the timely transfer of flight progress data. For effective coordination and safety, flight progress data must be communicated to the receiving facility at least 15 minutes prior to the estimated time of arrival within their airspace. This timeframe allows controllers at the receiving facility to prepare for the aircraft's arrival, enabling proper resource planning and managing potential traffic.

The procedural requirements emphasize the importance of having sufficient lead time for necessary preparations, including the assessment of traffic, allocation of runways, and any necessary changes to the flight's route or altitude. This ensures the smooth integration of incoming aircraft into the existing flow of air traffic, facilitating both safety and efficiency.

While other timeframes might seem plausible, they do not align with the established protocols that focus on a minimum of 15 minutes as critical for appropriate situational awareness and handling of air traffic operations.