air traffic control

noun

: the process or system by which the movements of aircraft are monitored and directed by ground personnel communicating with pilots by radio
improving the technology used for air traffic control
also : the personnel who operate an air traffic control system
Pilots would still have to file flight plans, which could be modified by air traffic control if they posed any safety hazards. David R. Hinson

Examples of air traffic control in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Heathrow — where the U.K. government plans to build a third runway — was at the heart of a shorter disruption in 2023 when Britain’s air traffic control system was hit by a breakdown that slowed takeoffs and landings across the U.K. on one of the busiest travel days of the year. Danica Kirka, Chicago Tribune, 21 Mar. 2025 Federal watchdogs have raised concerns about the Federal Aviation Administration's air traffic control system for decades, an ABC News analysis of government reports found. Jared Kofsky, ABC News, 19 Mar. 2025 Included, though, are increases for immigration enforcement, federal firefighter pay, air traffic control systems and food aid for lower income people. David Lightman, Sacramento Bee, 11 Mar. 2025 The flight crew was in communication with the airport's air traffic control tower at the time of the accident and no distress calls were received from the flight crew, per the report. Mike D'onofrio, Axios, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for air traffic control

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of air traffic control was in 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Air traffic control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/air%20traffic%20control. Accessed 29 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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