CHAPTER 7
FLIGHT ASSISTANCE SERVICES
As an Air Traffic Controller (AC) assigned to the flight planning branch of an air traffic
control facility, the assistance you provide to pilots is very important. Your assistance
plays a critical role in the safety of the flight and in providing a smooth transition through
the air traffic control system. You will need a thorough understanding of the information
presented in this chapter to perform as an Air Traffic Controller.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
The material in this chapter will enable you to:
Describe the functions of the flight planning branch
Identify the assistance given to a pilot by the Air Traffic Controller in planning a
flight
Identify the conditions that require search and rescue (SAR) operations and state
the procedures to be followed in effecting SAR for both instrument flight rules
(IFR) and visual flight rules (VFR) flights
Identify individual and activity responsibilities for originating and executing
procedures under the notice to airmen (NOTAM) system
FLIGHT PLANNING BRANCH FUNCTIONS
The flight planning branch provides for flight guard; receives and processes inbound
and outbound flight information; and provides for planning, receiving, and processing
flight plans.
Billets and Responsibilities
Table 7-1 contains billets and responsibilities of the flight planning branch personnel.
7-1