US History of Air Traffic Control Essay Example
US History of Air Traffic Control Essay Example

US History of Air Traffic Control Essay Example

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  • Pages: 3 (559 words)
  • Published: June 29, 2016
  • Type: Article
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Even though computers play a significant role in managing data and transferring information within the U.S. National Airspace System (NAS), skilled human controllers remain primarily responsible for air traffic control. These controllers gather information from processed radar data, communicate with pilots through voice communication, and utilize printed flight data strips.

Although the ATC system automation may seem outdated in comparison to the advanced aircraft technology it regulates, it is an exceptional human-machine system that has successfully adapted to immense demands.

The operators and managers of the system have effectively managed a higher amount of traffic than expected in recent years. This accomplishment can be attributed to their innovative and flexible approach.

Over the past seventy years, the air transport system has undergone unprecedented changes. In the past, airlines were allowed to set operating st

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andards that exceeded the minimum requirements due to regulations.

The principles of safety and conservatism drove the design and implementation of air traffic control (Garland, Wise, Hopkin, 1999).

In the 1980s, there were several factors that led to significant changes. These factors included the air traffic controllers' strike in 1981, the rise of unrestricted competition, and the substantial increase in discretionary travel caused by airline deregulation.

Despite these disruptions, the aviation system continued to operate effectively. Nevertheless, airlines recognized the need to revolutionize their business practices. An important transformation occurred with the implementation of "hub-and-spoke" flying. This involved carriers designating specific "hub" airports where they would operate long-distance flights, and then transferring passengers onto shorter "spoke" flights to reach their final destinations.

The previous spacing of traffic was more reasonable,

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but now there are huge concentrations causing an increased workload for controllers. The air traffic control system is facing peak loads of traffic with outdated equipment, chronic understaffing, and inexperienced controllers in many facilities.

Since the early 1980s, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has been formulating plans to significantly enhance the air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure. This involves introducing advanced automation to enhance controller efficiency, eliminate congestion in airspace, and improve traffic flow.

According to Paul R. Schulman (2001), the original plan was to install the first set of new equipment in the Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) by late 1994. However, there have been significant delays in the implementation schedule and the costs have increased by nearly three billion dollars.

The history of ATC

Air traffic control at airports began in the late 1920s. Initially, controllers relied on flags and stood outside. Eventually, control towers were constructed, allowing controllers to communicate one-way with airplanes using light guns.

Radios were initially introduced and utilized in the mid-1930s; however, smaller aircraft did not have radios until after World War II. In addition, light guns were still in use until the 1950s.

With the increase in all-weather transport flying and the availability of radar after the war, tower visual control of local aircraft was enhanced by radar control of traffic in busier terminal areas. Terminal area controllers, who were stationed at towers, were provided with separate radar equipment. This enabled them to assist departing air traffic with a transition to the en route environment and guide arrivals from that environment to a final approach for landing.

Tranquil radar

approach control (TRACCIN) facilities initially had broadband radar and later included data-processing equipment and automated data communication with en route centers. Skilled controllers operated as both tower and TRACON controllers.

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