What is Aerodrome Control
Position Disciplines
An aerodrome control unit provides:
Aerodrome Control may be split into different disciplines:
Responsibilities of Aerodrome Control
Aerodrome controllers are responsible for issuing information and instructions to aircraft under their control in order to achieve a safe, orderly and expeditious flow of air traffic. They also assist pilots in preventing collisions between:
Aerodrome Control may be split into different disciplines:
GMP
The GMP (Clearance delivery) controller is responsible for providing departing aircraft with their IFR clearance. It is not something to be taken lightly. The smooth flow of all traffic depends on these clearances. If a clearance is incorrect another controller down the line will have to amend it, and potentially distract the pilot from his flying. If the error would have been corrected before take-off the pilot would have had all the time to amend his plan, and not have anything to worry about when in the air.
GMC
GMC (Ground) Controllers are responsible for getting aircraft from the aprons to the runways and back safely and with minimal delay. In conditions of low visibility or when aircraft unfamiliar to the aerodrome visit, they may be called upon to provide guided taxi instructions. They are also responsible for issuing instructions to any vehicles (Follow Me cars, runway inspection vehicles) on the manoeuvring area. GMC Controllers will also issue IFR clearances when GMP is not open, or doesn't exist at the airport.
AIR
The AIR (tower) controller is responsible for all active runways, and for traffic operating in and within the vicinity of the Aerodrome Traffic Zone (up to 2.5nm radius, Surface up to 2000 AAL). At most airports, the tower controller will be responsible for the runway access points. AIR controllers will carry out the tasks of GMP and GMC in the absence of these controllers.