Definition
An ATC computer display, used at an Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC), that shows a list of aircraft predicted to enter the center's airspace or a particular sector within it. The display lists each aircraft along with relevant flight plan data such as estimated time of arrival at a fix, altitude, and route, allowing controllers to plan ahead for traffic that has not yet checked in.
Plain English
A screen at a control center that shows controllers which aircraft are coming their way soon, so they can prepare before those aircraft actually arrive in their airspace.
Context Anchor
Encountered in air traffic control and FAA system descriptions, especially where controllers are reviewing flight plan details or checking a requested change.
Derivation
From 'plans' (intended actions ahead of time) and 'display' (a screen showing information). The name reflects its purpose: showing the planned future traffic picture rather than current radar contacts.
Why Pilots Care
Enables controllers to quickly reference and update a pilot's intended path, supporting safe separation and efficient routing decisions.
Intuition Check
Do not read “Plans Display” as a general planning screen for pilots. In this FAA context, it means a specific controller display for reviewing flight plan information.
Example Sentence 1
The controller checked the plans display and saw three arrivals inbound to the sector within the next fifteen minutes.
Example Sentence 2
After filing, the pilot checked the plans display on the briefing terminal to verify the route had been accepted.