air-traffic control

[air-traf-ik]

noun

1. a government service that facilitates the safe and orderly movement of aircraft within and between airports by receiving and processing data from radar and devices that monitor local weather conditions and by maintaining radio contact with pilots.

air-traffic control

noun

1. an organization that determines the altitude, speed, and direction at which planes fly in a given area, giving instructions to pilots by radio

Other Word Forms

• air-traffic controller noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of air-traffic control¹

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

The systems would involve “smart automation” features that kick in, for instance, when a plane depressurizes—causing it to descend to 10,000 feet, sending an emergency transmission to air-traffic control and avoiding other aircraft on the way to lower altitude.

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The latest shortfall happened Wednesday afternoon when not enough workers showed up at Reagan Washington National Airport’s air-traffic control tower, prompting delays in the nation’s capital.

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The U.S. air-traffic control system is dependent on skilled workers who can’t be replaced quickly.

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Air-traffic control instructed flight 5155, the Roanoke flight, to hold short and yield to the other aircraft, the FAA said.

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Staffing shortages at federal air-traffic control facilities across the country have prompted authorities to slow the number of flights that can take off and land at certain airports.

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