Coordinating and directing control of aircraft operating in assigned airspace
areas and vehicular traffic operating on runways, taxiways, and other designated
areas of the airfield
Briefing the control tower watch team on weather conditions, traffic, equipment
status, field conditions, and special evolutions
Assigning personnel to operating positions according to individual qualifications
and training requirements as directed
Assigning trainees to qualified controllers for supervision
Notifying cognizant Search and Rescue (SAR) agencies of aircraft in distress and
providing assistance and advice during emergencies
Taking immediate action to suspend VFR operations and inform appropriate
authorities at times when the airfield is technically VFR but visual separation
cannot be maintained
Ensuring the ATC equipment checklist is completed at the beginning of each shift
Local Control
Local Control (LC) is responsible for maintaining a continuous visual surveillance of the
Class B/C/D/E surface area/Class G airspace and airport movement areas. Primary
duties of LC include the following:
Formulating and issuing clearances and control instructions to accomplish
separation between aircraft and between aircraft and vehicles operating under
the jurisdiction of the tower
Effecting coordination with appropriate operator positions and other facilities
Providing flight assistance service to aircraft
Operating airport lighting, lighting systems, and visual landing aids
Providing initial notification and dispatch of emergency personnel and equipment
for aircraft emergencies and mishaps
Ground Control (GC) is responsible for exercising surveillance of the airport movement
area. Primary duties of GC include the following:
Formulating and issuing ground movement clearances to aircraft and vehicles
operating on the airport
Transmitting current weather and field conditions, as required
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