Mobile Communications and Control Vans
Some air traffic control facilities (ATCF) have a mobile control towers or radio
communications vans for the AC to use as temporary operating facilities when the need
arises.
Mobile Communications and Control Vans
These vans are used during periods of equipment outages in the main control tower.
They may also be used by the LSO when FCLP is being conducted. This equipment is
also used when special on-airfield operations or tests/evaluations require real-time
coordination with the controllers in the primary control tower.
The mobile control tower provides controllers with the minimum equipment necessary
for performing their duties satisfactorily, especially when traffic conditions are relatively
light. Normally, local procedures limit the tempo of airport flight operations when these
temporary facilities are in use.
Emergency Power
An emergency generator or other independent power source at each ATCF ensures
continuous operation of the facility should the primary power source fail.
Responsibility
Commanding Officers are responsible for the plans and procedures for ensuring the
continuity of air traffic control services and navigational aids during emergency
conditions such as power failure, fire, flood, and storm damage. For use in emergency
conditions, auxiliary power sources must be maintained in optimum operational
condition. To ensure maximum continuity of ATC service, each ATCF has a preventive
maintenance program, a periodic load operation, and a no-load operation.
Use of Auxiliary Power during Severe Weather
Weather reports, advisories, and RADAR are monitored to determine when severe
weather activity is approaching the facility. Facilities that lack reliable automatic transfer
equipment for auxiliary power must shift to auxiliary power at least 30 minutes before
severe weather is expected to arrive. The ATCF Officer directs the use of auxiliary
power generators for related facilities and navigational aids.
Emergency and Crash Procedures
The facilities for fighting fires and aiding personnel involved in crashes are a vital part of
airport equipment.
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