The primary task of an air traffic controller is to ensure the safe and efficient flow of air traffic. Air traffic controllers are experts at "separating" traffic, i.e., separating the routes of aircraft so that they do not collide. The air traffic controller control all air traffic in the controlled airspace and keeps contact with the aircrafts and vehicles on the ground by two-way radio communications. The air traffic controller uses radar screens to see the aircrafts.
There are three different types of air traffic control services
- air traffic control that are responsible for aircraft taking off and landing and for the airspace nearest to the airport
- terminal air traffic control that uses radar to direct traffic within 30 to 50 nautical miles of the airport
- area control that directs traffic at high altitude.
Would you like to become a trainee air traffic controller? Find out if you meet the requirements here.