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.
The flight reductions are a response to air traffic control staffing shortages amplified by the shutdown. Cheryl Vari, Cincinnati Enquirer, 7 Nov. 2025 Airlines are canceling flights to meet requirements from the Federal Aviation Administration to reduce flights by up to 10% because of air traffic control shortages during the government shutdown. Michael Salerno, AZCentral.com, 7 Nov. 2025 Roughly half of the nation’s major air traffic control centers are experiencing staff shortages, the Federal Aviation Administration told ABC News. Chase Jordan updated November 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 Nov. 2025 The air traffic control system was functioning fairly well during the shutdown until this past weekend, when staffing shortages occurred at dozens of facilities simultaneously. Brittney Melton, NPR, 7 Nov. 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 11 Nov. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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