Definition
A computer-based air traffic control system used at busy terminal radar facilities (TRACONs) that processes radar returns and transponder data to display each aircraft's position together with an alphanumeric data block showing identification, altitude, and groundspeed. ARTS III tracks aircraft automatically, allowing controllers to manage traffic by tagged data rather than by raw radar blips alone.
Plain English
A computer system at busy approach control facilities that takes the radar picture and adds a small label next to each aircraft showing its call sign, altitude, and speed, so the controller can tell aircraft apart at a glance.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of approach and departure control, especially where the handbook explains what radar controllers see on their displays.
Derivation
Automated because the computer does the tracking and labeling work that controllers once did by hand. Radar Terminal because it serves the terminal area (the airspace around an airport, as opposed to en route airspace). The III simply marks the third-generation model in the ARTS family.
Why Pilots Care
It gives controllers clearer information so they can sequence arrivals and departures safely and efficiently.
Intuition Check
“Terminal” does not mean the passenger building here. It means the controlled flying area and air traffic services around one or more airports.
Example Sentence 1
After the handoff to approach control, the controller's ARTS III display tagged the flight with its call sign and Mode C altitude.
Example Sentence 2
ARTS III allowed the departure controller to monitor each aircraft's altitude and speed after takeoff.