Definition
A predicted convergence of two or more aircraft, or an aircraft and protected airspace, that ATC's automation systems flag as requiring controller attention. The system projects each aircraft's future position based on current track and altitude and identifies cases where standard separation would be lost or where an aircraft would penetrate special use or restricted airspace.
Plain English
A computer-generated warning to controllers that two aircraft are heading toward each other too closely, or that an aircraft is heading into airspace it shouldn't enter, based on where they're projected to be in the next few minutes.
Context Anchor
Seen in air traffic control, especially when controllers or ATC automation are watching traffic separation and possible route problems.
Derivation
Conflict comes from a Latin idea meaning “to strike together.” In aviation, the useful idea is not an argument; it is two paths or requirements coming together in a way that cannot safely continue unchanged.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots and controllers must resolve conflicts immediately to prevent mid-air collisions and maintain safe flight operations.
Intuition Check
Do not read “conflict” as a disagreement between people. Here it means a traffic or airspace situation that needs action to prevent an unsafe or noncompliant flight path.
Example Sentence 1
The controller's display showed an aircraft conflict, so she issued an immediate descent to the lower aircraft to restore separation.
Example Sentence 2
Maintaining proper separation prevents aircraft conflicts during busy terminal area operations.