Controlled Airport

A controlled airport is a certified airport at which an air traffic control unit is in operation — specifically, an aerodrome control tower providing ATC service. At a controlled airport, all aircraft operations within the control zone and the circuit area are subject to ATC instructions.

Requirements at a Controlled Airport

• Two-way radio communication must be established before entering the control zone
• A take-off clearance must be obtained before entering the runway for departure
• A landing clearance must be received before touching down
• Ground movement requires taxi clearance from ground control

VFR at Controlled Airports

VFR pilots can operate at controlled airports but must follow ATC instructions and comply with the radio and clearance requirements of the airspace class. At Class D airports, two-way communication is required; at Class C, a clearance is required. VFR weather minima must be maintained at all times.

Related Terms

See also: Control Tower, Control Zone, Classification of Airspace.