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03.5 Decision Making

Training Objective

To ensure effective and timely decision-making in a dynamic environment.


Key Knowledge

  • Tactical vs strategic decisions
  • Risk assessment
  • Intervention timing

Operational Application

Controllers shall:

  • Make timely decisions to resolve conflicts
  • Apply the safest and most efficient solution
  • Avoid unnecessary complexity

1. Overview

Decision-making in ATC involves selecting safe and effective actions under time pressure.


2. Core Content

2.1 Tactical Decisions

  • Immediate actions
  • Conflict resolution

2.2 Strategic Decisions

  • Planning ahead
  • Traffic flow management

2.3 Risk Assessment

  • Evaluate consequences
  • Choose safest option

3. Procedures

3.1 Intervention Timing

  • Early intervention preferred
  • Avoid last-minute actions

4. Standards

  • Decisions shall prioritise safety over efficiency
  • Solutions shall be clear and manageable

5. Notes

  • Late decisions increase workload and risk