Air Traffic Control - Need and Objective

The conception of Air Traffic Control profession evolved right after the invention of aircraft by Wright Brothers in 1903. During that time some one had to observe carefully the progress of flight from ground. This operational watch over an aircraft prompted the institution of air traffic control.

The very work of air traffic control began from waving of flag from the airfield symbolizing runway safe for landing.  

As more and more aircraft along with their variation in speed and category took the sky, the only view of pilot from cockpit was not possible to maintain separation from each other. That in turn resulted the collision between aircrafts, then after the need to keep aircraft apart became prominent. Different measures like carriage of radio equipment and defined set of route for all to follow were taken. More and more equipment and ground based navigational aids for the guidance of airborne aircraft were developed and the actual controlling authority to aircraft by air traffic controllers were given for channeling the flow of air traffic and keeping them separated.

The aim of air traffic control service is to ensure safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic, among them preventing collision between aircraft is the prime objective. 

To achieve those objective air traffic controller issues clearances to the pilot to start, taxi, to take off and land, and to provide safe separation between aircraft at any given time based on internationally agreed standards and procedures. Besides these, air traffic controllers also provide any pertinent information for the safe conduct of flight (Flight Information Service) and assist when aircraft is in need of search and rescue (Alerting Service).

Air Traffic Control-The Profession  

Air Traffic Control like other modern profession it has developed from the humblest beginning into a highly sophisticated and technology driven occupation. There is no special theory, how it was discovered and invented but it has evolved gradually and driven by need. 

Air Traffic control is the science some say the art of maintaining safety by keeping air traffic separated and as well as expediting and maintaining the orderly flow of air transportation.

The role of ATC has been simply described as converting the traffic demand into traffic flow with least possible delay. Clearance issued by air traffic controllers is for the safety of flight which can not be compromised. 

Air Traffic Controllers should be well trained, mentally sharp and physically fit. They must have up to date knowledge of internationally agreed standards and procedures set for the air traffic control. 

A controller is a quick thinking man who does not have the privilege to stall. All instructions to aircraft are recorded continuously on tape and any instructional error is traceable by replay, a tremendous constraint on the individual – a disturbing yet necessary requirement that no other profession entails and no professional has to contend with. This makes the controller a man with the mission of responsibility scrutinizes constantly, functioning to standards of pinpoint accuracy. In most jobs one can usually get by with off slip –up or and occasionally unfocused mind. Not so in Air Traffic Control where the margin for error is zero. 

ATCs use standard phraseology to give instructions to aircrafts, which must be clear and concise. Any mistake made by ATC or misunderstand by pilot can result in a disaster and loss of many lives.

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