Long Ca

Introduction:

• ATC uses Radio Detection And Ranging (RADAR) which create radio waves, transmitted into the air that are then received when they have been reflected (echo) by an object in the path of the beam
• Range is determined by measuring the time it takes (at the speed of light) for the radio wave to go out to the object and then return to the receiving antenna
• Direction of a detected object from a radar site is determined by the position of the rotating antenna when the reflected portion of the radio wave is received

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Introduction:

• Communications are a critical link in the ATC system
• The most important thought in communications is understanding
  • It is essential, therefore, that pilots acknowledge each radio communication with ATC by using the appropriate aircraft call sign
• Brevity is important but not at the price of understanding
  • Controllers must know what you want to do before they can properly carry out their control duties
  • Pilots, must know exactly what the controller wants you to do
  • Since concise phraseology may not always be adequate, use whatever words are necessary to get your message across
• Talking on the radio however, can be intimidating to even experienced aviators
• It is therefore important that pilots practice effective communication techniques
• You must be familiar with ATC Radio Communications
  • Phraseology brings everyone to the same page and allows for an orderly flow of information for instances when you are in congested airspace and there is no time for extra verbiage
• Calls to air traffic control facilities may be monitored and recorded for records/training
• Visiting air traffic facilities is recommended, call ahead to ensure they can accommodate
• Communications are dynamic and can be broken into two environments:
  • Controlled
  • Non-Controlled

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Introduction:

• Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCC), also referred to as “centers,” are established primarily to provide air traffic service to aircraft operating on an Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) Flight Plan within controlled airspace
• This service is provided principally during the en route phase

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Introduction:

• Approach control is responsible for controlling all instrument flight operating within its area of responsibility
• Approach control may serve one or more airfields, and control is exercised primarily by direct pilot and controller communications
• Prior to arriving at the destination radio facility, instructions will be received from ARTCC to contact approach control on a specified frequency
• Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) controls aircraft from the terminal to en-route traffic control to one or more airfields
  • Typically controls aircraft approaching and departing between 5 and 50 miles of the airport
  • Approach control may serve one or more airfields, and control is exercised primarily by direct pilot and controller communications
• Radar equipment allows a controller to “see” the aircraft even at that distance
• Sequences and separates IFR and participating VFR aircraft

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