Final answer:
Flight Information Regions (FIRs) are designated regions of airspace where a Flight Information Service and Alerting Service are provided. There are roughly 317 FIRs worldwide. FIRs manage and ensure the safety of air traffic within their designated airspace.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Flight Information Region (FIR) refers to a specific region of airspace in which a Flight Information Service and an Alerting Service (ALRS) are provided. The whole world is divided into different FIRs to manage and regulate the flow of air traffic and maintain safety. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, there are approximately 317 FIRs worldwide, and this number may vary as it can be subject to changes by aviation authorities. Each FIR is managed by a specific country or in some cases jointly by multiple countries, and controllers within each region are responsible for the provision of air traffic services, provision of information necessary for the safe and efficient conduct of flights, and alerting services for aircraft in distress within their assigned airspace.