Approach Control

Approach Control

What is Approach Control?

Navigating the Role of Approach Control

Approach Control is responsible for managing aircraft during the approach phase of flight, ensuring safe and orderly arrivals.

Approach control is a radar-based air traffic control service provided to aircraft during the approach and departure phases of flight, typically within about 40 miles of an airport.

• Responsibilities: This service is responsible for managing arriving and departing traffic, sequencing and spacing aircraft, and ensuring safe and efficient operations near airports.
• Coordination with Tower and Center: Approach control works together with airport control towers and area control centres to manage transitions between en route and terminal airspace.
• Use of Radar and Communications: Approach controllers use radar, radio communications, and other tools to provide navigational guidance and clearances to pilots.

Approach control is a vital component of air traffic management, ensuring safe and efficient handling of aircraft as they enter and leave the busy airspace around airports.