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.
According to a report in the New York Times, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy clashed with Musk about efforts by young members of his DOGE team to reduce air traffic control staffing. Chris Isidore, CNN, 11 Mar. 2025 Investigators believe the helicopter's altitude readings may have been inaccurate and that its crew may have missed key air traffic control instructions. Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 11 Mar. 2025 Travelers may see changes in approach paths and air traffic control procedures at DCA and other major airports with similar mixed airspace conditions. Kathleen Wong, USA TODAY, 11 Mar. 2025 There are currently a number of open air traffic control jobs on the FAA's website, including for air traffic control and traffic management specialists and at various stages of their careers. Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 27 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Air traffic control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/air%20traffic%20control. Accessed 17 Mar. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!