02.5 Sectorisation
Training Objective
To provide understanding of sector-based airspace division and workload management.
Key Knowledge
- Sector boundaries
- Traffic distribution
- Controller workload principles
- Dynamic sectorisation
Operational Application
Controllers shall:
- Operate within assigned sector limits
- Maintain awareness of adjacent sectors
- Manage workload effectively
1. Overview
Airspace is divided into sectors to distribute workload and maintain safe operations.
2. Core Content
2.1 Sector Boundaries
- Defined laterally and vertically
- May be static or dynamic
2.2 Sector Capacity
- Maximum number of aircraft manageable safely
- Influenced by complexity and traffic flow
2.3 Bandboxing
- Combining multiple sectors under one controller
2.4 Complexity Factors
Sector workload is influenced by:
- Crossing traffic
- Climb and descent profiles
- Speed differentials
- Weather deviations
2.5 Tactical vs Strategic Workload
- Strategic workload: planning ahead (10–20 minutes)
- Tactical workload: immediate control actions
Controllers shall balance both continuously.
2.6 Complexity vs Traffic Count
Workload is not determined solely by aircraft count.
Factors include:
- Crossing traffic
- Climb/descent conflicts
- Speed variation
- Weather deviations
3. Procedures
3.1 Sector Handover
- Aircraft shall be transferred prior to boundary
- Coordination shall be completed in advance
3.2 Sector Splitting
- Sectors may be split when workload exceeds safe limits
- Additional controllers may be introduced
4. Standards
- Controllers shall not exceed manageable workload
- Sector limits shall be strictly observed
5. Notes
- Poor sector awareness leads to coordination failures