Plain English Meaning

ATC is the team of controllers on the ground who talk to pilots by radio, tell them where and when to taxi, take off, climb, turn, and land, and keep aircraft a safe distance apart.

Full Definition

The ground-based service operated by qualified controllers who direct aircraft on the ground and in controlled airspace, issuing instructions and clearances to keep aircraft safely separated from each other and from terrain, and to provide an orderly flow of traffic.

Context Anchor

Pilots encounter ATC during radio communication, flight planning, takeoff, , and when flying in controlled airspace.