Understanding the Basics of Air Traffic

Air traffic has indeed taken one of the biggest industry hit over the past year. International passenger traffic dropped 74% in 2020, but it won’t stay that way. You could argue there’s nowhere to go but up with air travel.

As people take to the air again, the pressure will be back on for air traffic control everywhere. So if you have an interest in air traffic, there’s no better time to start.

So, whether you’re planning on becoming a pilot or you want to know more about how it works, keep reading. This brief guide will give you plenty of answers about traffic control.

Learn the Language

Speaking in clear and concise detail is at the heart of piloting basics. The time it takes to convey an effective message is all the difference when pilots take to the air. So, learning proper radio communications is vital to everyone involved.

If you are becoming a pilot in the future, practice your phrasing of messages in your free time. Lots of aircraft have an intercom that connects with a recorder. So, use those recordings as references to help you perfect your language.

Make an effort to learn new words from the glossary. Of course, it’s impossible to memorize everything, but when new phrases come up, don’t be afraid to ask if you’re unsure. If your request gets turned down, understand how busy air traffic control is and be patient.

Air traffic controllers will work with new pilots when time permits. It’s in everyone’s best interests to perform smooth communication practices. So, whatever you can do on your own to learn the language, so much the better.

Learn How Air Traffic Control Works

Every pilot, regardless of experience level, should know the workings of air traffic. An average of 5,000 planes each hour take to the air in the United States. So understanding how zoning works and you get passed off to another tower is crucial.

The equipment level of each tower is different too. Some local traffic control towers work with nothing more than a pair of binoculars and a window. They rely on positioning to direct air traffic.

Then, there are those with basic radar equipment and not much else. The tower is still not using radar to total capacity, so they are again relying on eyesight. In both instances, understanding the messaging and the order it comes is vital.

Knowing this language helps you prepare for flying into certified traffic control space. Being aware of CRPA capabilities will help you avoid unuseful chatter. A simple but defined message assists a controller who is under more extreme pressure.

Be a Team Player

Air travel is on the increase again, and air traffic remains at the center of the safety of everyone. Piloting basics will provide a nominal understanding of air traffic systems. But, becoming a pilot comes with more responsibility.

So, do the aviation world a favor and learn as much as possible before you take to the air. Trouble-free communication ensures safety for all, and you are a big part of that.

And if you found this article uplifting, come back for more insightful pieces.