The US air traffic control system architecture

The general architecture of the US National Airspace System (NAS) is presented. Background on the overall air traffic control (ATC) system´s history is given as prologue to descriptions of the major elements of the NAS Plan, the US Federal Aviation Administration´s current effort to upgrade and modernize the ATC system. Technologies central to achieving the planned end-state configuration for each element are characterized in terms of their functional impact and potential benefit. Communications, navigation aids, weather support, surveillance, and maintenance systems are all undergoing significant technology upgrade. Digital processing capabilities and communications technology lead the way in permitting this modernization program to become reality. Significant consolidation efforts are yielding a much more cost-effective, responsive, and flexible ATC environment