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

pronounced, negative ripple effect throughout the NAS. Many features of the current-day ATCT
line controller job allow system users to transition seamlessly during these phases of flight and
effectively decrease those bottlenecks. The next Activity, the transfer of radar identification,
describes how these transitions can occur invisibly to the pilot and thereby help with overall
system effectiveness.
Current ATCT Activity 7: Transfer of Radar Identification
As aircraft leave airspace controlled by one controller and enter another controller’s airspace, the
controller responsible for that aircraft must effect a positive transfer of control. This requirement
ensures information integrity and makes sure that each aircraft is actively controlled by a single
controller at any given time.
ATCT line controllers perform the function of radar identification transfer by initiating and
receiving point outs and handoffs from other controllers by using the alphanumeric displays and
data blocks (e.g., D-BRITE, RACD, TDW). This alphanumeric capability provides controllers
with the ability to silently communicate with other controllers. Flight progress strips are also
used to track and record information. They receive requests, initiate automated and manual
handoffs, and coordinate restrictions as necessary to transfer aircraft identification, position, and
flight information from one airspace jurisdiction to another.
Infrequently, ATCT line controllers initiate a radar “handoff” or “point out” to gain approval for
using another controller’s airspace. During such instances, the controller receives the request,
determines the need for coordination, ensures that conflicts have been resolved, and gives extra
instructions to facilitate the operation. Appropriate coordination is made and information is
logged on flight strips or entered on the data block by the line controller. In the rare instance
when such requests cannot be approved, controllers use alternative methods of routing, declaring
radar contact to indicate that they now accept responsibility for the aircraft and suppressing
automated tracking information accordingly.
Controllers complete the transfer of aircraft in transit in the manner above to provide system
users with a seamless transition along their route of flight. ATCT controllers continue to update
and modify this information in a manner that allows less frequency congestion, more situation
awareness, and better overall system performance. These procedures allow aircraft to transition
in a more positive control environment. Another very important job Activity for controllers
concerns the impact of weather on their operation. It is one of the most dynamic and challenging
aspects of the job.
Current ATCT Activity 8: Assess Impact of Weather
Controllers must constantly observe weather conditions and evaluate whether and how they will
affect airport operations. Responding to changing weather conditions is critical because it gives
aircraft operators the ability to avoid potentially unsafe conditions during ground movement and
critical phases of flight.
To respond appropriately to often rapidly changing weather conditions, controllers actively
monitor and record information (e.g., movement and intensity of winds or storms) that is
gathered by weather sensors. These data are typically displayed on automated surface observing
systems (ASOSs), LLWAS, and Runway Visual Range (RVR) indicators. If the ATCT has a
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