Terminal Control Area (TCA)

A Terminal Control Area (TCA) is a large block of Class B or Class C controlled airspace established around major airports to protect the high-density of IFR and VFR traffic during arrival and departure. In Canada, TCAs are typically depicted as an inverted wedding cake — wider at higher altitudes, narrower near the surface.

Entering a TCA

• Class B TCA: ATC clearance required for all aircraft — both IFR and VFR; ATC separation provided
• Class C TCA: ATC clearance required; two-way radio mandatory; traffic information provided to VFR
• Transponder with Mode C required in all TCAs

TCA Dimensions

Canadian TCAs have complex shapes published on VFR charts and in the CFS. Study the TCA chart for any destination carefully before flight — the dimensions and class of each sector determine the exact entry requirements.

Related Terms

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