job description for the nextgen mid-term atct controller - FAA Human ...

status and information areas (SIAs), information contained on the Automated Terminal
Information Service (ATIS), flight strips, and the alphanumerical data blocks of the surface
surveillance systems, such as Airport Surface Detection Equipment-Model X (ASDE-X),
Automated Radar Terminal System (ARTS), Common Automated Radar Terminal System
(CARTS), or Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS). Once initial
assessments have been made, controllers follow position relief checklists and use sign-in logs to
complete the transfer of control. After assuming the position, controllers adjust the displays,
volumes, and configurations, if necessary, to ensure that all are satisfactory and usable.
During their work period, controllers scan and monitor airport surveillance radar systems, flight
strips, weather data, aircraft and vehicle positions, and equipment status monitors (alarms) to
establish overall awareness of the operation. ATCT line controllers use all informational sources
to identify patterns and irregularities, not only within their area of responsibility but also in
adjacent areas, on the airport, and within the National Airspace System (NAS) as a whole.
The final step of maintaining situation awareness occurs as controllers are relieved from their
positional duties. At this time, they pass all previously gathered information to the next
controller. This protocol ensures that the next controller can also establish and maintain situation
awareness and provide uninterrupted service to users. Both controllers must review information
for completeness and accuracy as they incorporate it into their position relief briefing using
recorded lines and position checklists. An acceptable exchange is completed as they fill out and
sign the position logs.
The purpose of establishing and maintaining situation awareness is to give ATCT line controllers
the means to operate their position while still being able to consistently manage operations and
communicate effectively with others. This communication is covered in the next Activity.
Current ATCT Activity 2: Manage Communications
Controllers working in the ATCT environment control the movement of aircraft and vehicles—
and ensure their separation—primarily by communicating clearances and other instructions to
others. Information vital to the operation of the NAS is contained in this constant flow and
exchange of information.
More specifically, ATCT line controllers are responsible for establishing, maintaining,
transferring, and terminating two-way communications with operators as well as with other
controllers and facilities. Controllers use radio frequencies and landlines that are part of the
Rapid Deployment Voice Switch (RDVS) or the Enhanced Terminal Voice Switch (ETVS).
After initial contact is established, controllers formulate clearances, instructions, and other
messages by following a specific protocol of initiating, receiving, and verifying information for
accuracy. If updates or amendments are needed, controllers ensure communications integrity by
completing them in a timely manner.
Communications provide the key link to air traffic control system functionality. Each
component of this system must be relayed in a complete, timely, and accurate manner to ensure
the smooth, safe flow of air traffic and to allow other important information to be relayed.
Responsibilities regarding flight plan data are covered in the next section.
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