What type of traffic does an ARTCC primarily provide control services for?

An ARTCC (Air Route Traffic Control Center) primarily provides control services for both IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) and VFR (Visual Flight Rules) traffic. This means that the ARTCC is responsible for managing the safe and efficient flow of air traffic in the en route airspace, which includes handling aircraft that are flying under IFR — typically requiring air traffic control guidance due to various conditions, such as poor visibility — as well as VFR traffic, where pilots navigate primarily by visual landmarks and may communicate with air traffic control for additional services.

This dual capability is crucial because it ensures comprehensive traffic management across diverse flight operations. IFR traffic tends to be more prevalent in busy airspaces, where precise control and separation are necessary for safety, whereas VFR traffic might include smaller aircraft or general aviation pilots who operate under visual conditions. By providing services to both categories, the ARTCC can enhance overall airspace safety and efficiency, integrating a wide range of aircraft operations.

The other options do not encompass the full scope of the ARTCC's responsibilities, as they imply a limitation to either IFR or VFR traffic or a focus solely on military operations.