air traffic control

noun

: the process or system by which the movements of aircraft are monitored and directed by ground personnel communicating with pilots by radio
improving the technology used for air traffic control
also : the personnel who operate an air traffic control system
Pilots would still have to file flight plans, which could be modified by air traffic control if they posed any safety hazards. —David R. Hinson

Examples of air traffic control in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Airline experts share what travelers should expect over the next decade, from pricier tickets to air traffic control and sustainability. — Zach Wichter, USA Today, 1 July 2026 Aviation reshaped commerce only after airports, maintenance networks and air traffic control took hold. — Charles Beames, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026 However, about 15 minutes into the flight, a pilot reported a passenger disturbance to air traffic control. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 2 July 2026 In addition to museums and university buildings, Pei’s oeuvre includes chapels, public plazas and air traffic control towers. — News Desk, Artforum, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for air traffic control

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of air traffic control was in 1919

Rhymes for air traffic control

See All Rhymes for air traffic control

Browse Nearby Words

air tower
air traffic control
air traffic controller
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Air traffic control.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/air%20traffic%20control. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.

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