Air traffic control

Air traffic control (ATC) is a service provided by ground-based air traffic controllers who direct aircraft on the ground and through controlled airspace. The primary purpose of ATC is to prevent collisions, organise and expedite the flow of air traffic, and provide information and other support for pilots. In some countries, ATC can also provide advisory services to aircraft in non-controlled airspace.

Controllers monitor the location of aircraft in their assigned airspace using radar and communicate with pilots by radio.
To prevent collisions, ATC enforces traffic separation rules, which ensure each aircraft maintains a minimum amount of empty space around it.
ATC services are provided to all types of aircraft, including private, military, and commercial flights.

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Source: Wikipedia · Image: Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0