09.2 Sector to Sector Coordination
Training Objective
To ensure safe and efficient transfer of aircraft between sectors within an ACC.
Key Knowledge
- Transfer of control vs communication
- Coordination requirements
- Standard transfer conditions
Operational Application
Controllers shall:
- Transfer aircraft in a coordinated and stable condition
- Ensure no conflicts exist at the boundary
- Comply with agreed sector procedures
1. Overview
Sector to sector coordination ensures the safe and orderly transfer of aircraft between controllers within the same ACC.
2. Core Content
2.1 Internal ACC Transfers
Aircraft shall be transferred between sectors:
- At agreed levels
- On agreed routing
- With no outstanding conflicts
2.2 Transfer of Control
- Responsibility transfers at defined coordination point
- Receiving controller assumes separation responsibility upon acceptance
2.3 Transfer of Communication
- May occur before or after transfer of control
- Shall be clearly understood between controllers
3. Procedures
3.1 Transferring Controller
- Resolve conflicts prior to transfer
- Ensure aircraft is stable (level, speed, route)
- Coordinate any non-standard conditions
3.2 Receiving Controller
- Accept aircraft only when able to provide separation
- Clarify any uncertainty prior to acceptance
4. Standards
- Aircraft shall not be transferred in conflict
- Coordination shall be completed prior to boundary
5. Notes
- Poor coordination is a major cause of loss of separation
- Assumptions between controllers increase risk