Description

The approach (APP) controller are responsible for the provision of air traffic service to departing and arriving traffic in a TMA (terminal movement area). They are the link between the Tower and Area controllers and normally serve aircraft during the climb, descent and approach phases.

Generally, an approach control unit is established only if the traffic demand warrants this. Many aerodromes (including controlled ones) only have tower controllers assigned. If this is the case, flights are normally transferred from the tower to a neighbouring area control centre (ACC) or flight information centre (FIC). Even if an approach control unit has been established for an aerodrome, it is still possible to transfer flights directly from the tower to the ACC (and vice-versa) if this has been appropriately coordinated.

Unlike the Tower controllers that are assigned to a single aerodrome (and sometimes a single runway), the APP controllers may serve flights from several (nearby) aerodromes.