What does the term “ground control” refer to in air traffic management?

The term “ground control” in air traffic management primarily refers to the handling of taxiing aircraft and the management of vehicular traffic on the airport surface. This function is critical as it ensures the safe and efficient movement of aircraft on the ground, from the moment they exit the runway until they reach their designated parking spots or gate. Ground controllers use radar and other communication tools to track, direct, and coordinate the flow of aircraft as well as service vehicles to prevent collisions and ensure a smooth operation on the airfield.

Understanding this role is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency at busy airports, where different types of vehicles and aircraft may be operating simultaneously. This coordination helps in managing the flow of traffic both for arriving and departing flights, ensuring that adequate spacing and proper routing are maintained on the taxiways, ramps, and aprons.