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

By needlessly politicizing air traffic control, both parties unwittingly make the case for privatization. — Editorial Board, Washington Post, 19 Oct. 2026

According to air traffic control audio, the pilots informed air traffic controllers ahead of landing that one person had a bloody nose and another person had bite marks and requested that medical personnel be waiting at the gate. — ABC News, 16 Oct. 2026

The incident sparked criticisms of India’s outdated air traffic control equipment. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 16 Oct. 2026

The aircraft will declare an emergency with air traffic control, then autonomously fly to the nearest suitable airport, communicate with air traffic control, and safely land, bringing the plane to a full stop and shutting down the engine. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for air traffic control

• amphibole
• asystole
• buttonhole
• casserole
• centriole
• decontrol
• glycerol
• metropole
• monopole
• multipole
• omeprazole
• oriole