Air Traffic Controller how-to

How to Handle an Aircraft Emergency

Calm, quick action gives pilots the best chance.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Calm, quick action gives pilots the best chance. In short: acknowledge; ask; give, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Acknowledge the emergency and the aircraft’s needs.

  2. Ask for souls on board and fuel remaining when appropriate.

  3. Give priority handling and clear the airspace.

  4. Coordinate with other facilities and emergency services.

  5. Keep instructions short and clear.

  6. Document the event.

Safety reminders for air traffic controllers

  • Follow fatigue rules and required breaks
  • Use standard phraseology
  • Scan runways and radar continuously
  • Report errors and safety concerns

Separation · Clearance · Tower · TRACON · ARTCC · Phraseology: see the full air traffic controller glossary.

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