How should a controller address an aircraft after issuing the wrong altitude?

When a controller realizes that an incorrect altitude has been issued, it is crucial to ensure the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations. The best course of action is to immediately reissue the correct clearance. This direct approach minimizes confusion and helps maintain situational awareness for the pilot.

Issuing the correct altitude promptly allows the pilot to understand the necessary adjustment they must make and aids in restoring the intended flight path or altitude safely. Timeliness is key in air traffic management, as any delay in correcting altitude issues could lead to potential conflicts with other aircraft or safety hazards.

Other choices, such as providing a corrective follow-up or explaining the reasoning behind the error, while possibly useful in certain contexts, can lead to unnecessary delays or complications in communication. Verbal confirmation of the wrong altitude would only add to confusion and could exacerbate the situation, failing to guide the pilot towards the correct course of action efficiently.