Definition
A computer system used within the air traffic control network to handle the exchange of flight data and operational messages between separate ATC facilities, such as between en route centers and terminal facilities.
Plain English
A behind-the-scenes computer that lets different air traffic control facilities pass flight information back and forth to each other automatically.
Context Anchor
Seen in FAA acronym lists and technical descriptions of air traffic control communication systems; it is not a cockpit instrument or a pilot procedure.
Derivation
Interfacility means 'between facilities' (inter- = between). A communications processor is a computer dedicated to handling messages. Together: a computer that handles messages between ATC facilities.
Why Pilots Care
When the IFCP is working, flight plans, handoffs, and updates move smoothly between centers and approach controls. Pilots feel its absence when controllers say things like 'we don't have your flight plan' — that's often an interfacility data issue.
Intuition Check
Do not read “processor” here as a person handling paperwork. In this context, it means a computer system that handles messages between facilities.
Example Sentence 1
The IFCP forwards each flight plan from the originating center to the next facility along the route.
Example Sentence 2
A failure in the IFCP can delay handoff messages between adjacent facilities.