What does IntEr LATA refer to in telecommunications?

In telecommunications, IntEr LATA refers to services that cross local access and transport areas (LATAs). When a call or service is identified as IntEr LATA, it means that the communication is occurring between different LATAs, which are designated geographic regions that define the boundaries for local telephone services. This term is particularly relevant when discussing long-distance telephone calls or services that involve multiple carriers, as the communication crosses jurisdictional boundaries established by regulatory frameworks.

Understanding the distinction of IntEr LATA is crucial for both service providers and consumers, as it implies different pricing structures, service agreements, and possibly regulatory requirements. This is in contrast to services that operate solely within a single LATA, which would be categorized as intra-LATA services, relevant for local calling and regional service considerations.