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.
How air traffic control is organized in Canada and beyond Proponents of air traffic control privatization often point to Canada as an example. Joe Hernandez, NPR, 27 June 2025 Electric passenger aircraft have flown in the US before, but only in test flights: ALIA was under the jurisdiction of normal air traffic control, following US regulators’ move to certify air taxis and other electric aircraft in October. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 23 June 2025 Just seconds after taking off, the cockpit gave a mayday call to air traffic control, CNN reported. Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 14 June 2025 NewsNation reported that the passenger jet gave a mayday call to air traffic control shortly after takeoff but then gave no response. Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 12 June 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 4 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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