How ATC Really Works — A Pilot-Friendly Manual

How ATC Really Works:

A Pilot-Friendly Manual

Go behind the scenes with ATC and get answers to the questions pilots ask most.

  • 127 pages—fully illustrated with color photos and graphics

  • Question/answer format

  • Clear explanations, real-world examples, and realistic scenarios
  • Digital manual looks great on an iPad; keep it in your EFB app for easy access

  • Optional spiral bound printed manual
  • Includes links to useful reference material

 

A Deeper Understanding of the ATC System

There’s much more to Air Traffic Control than talking on the radio. While most pilots are fluent in aviation phraseology, few have had the benefit of going behind the scenes to learn how ATC really works.

The ATC system is more complex than most pilots realize. Radio communications is only part of the story. A great deal of teamwork and coordination happens between (and within) Towers, TRACONs, and Centers—and most of it’s invisible to you from the cockpit.

We’ll take you behind the scenes and show you how the system works, how controllers do their jobs, and what they can and can’t do for you. You’ll see what happens on the ATC side when you take a typical—or not so typical—VFR or IFR flight. You’ll discover the variety of tools controllers have at their fingertips, the different ways they can provide assistance (when you know what to ask for), and how pilots and controllers can work together more effectively.

Reading this manual is like sitting down with a controller for a conversation about ATC. It will give you a deeper understanding of their world—an understanding you’ll be glad to have.

Useful Guidance for Pilots

This manual was written and reviewed by highly-experienced Air Traffic Controllers, and provides detailed answers to the ATC questions pilots ask most. It will help you anticipate controllers’ instructions, communicate more effectively, make better (more informed) in-flight decisions, and get the best support possible from the ATC system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which devices does the digital manual work with?
A: The digital manual is delivered in PDF format and works on any computer or mobile device.

Q: Can I load the digital manual onto my iPad?
A: Yes, the digital PDF is formatted for use on your iPad and can be downloaded in a few easy steps.

Q: What is the format of the printed manual?
A: The printed manual is 8.5 x 11 inches and 127 pages, so it will fit in most flight bags or in the seat pocket of your airplane. It’s printed in full color on high quality, durable paper. We take the extra step of adding a spiral binder, and we top it with a clear plastic cover to protect it from weather and spills.

Q: How long does it take to receive a printed manual?
A: We use the US Postal Service to mail all USA orders and they typically arrive within 5 business days. International orders usually arrive within 10 business days (can be longer in some countries). If you order the printed manual, you’ll also get the digital version which you can download and start using right away.

Order Today – Two Options

Digital (PDF)

– Quick and easy download
– Looks great on an iPad

$49

Add To Cart

Digital (PDF) + Printed Manual

– Add a printed manual (free shipping in USA)
– You’ll also get the digital PDF version

$69

Add to cart

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