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6.6 Transfer to Tower

6.6.1 General

Transfer to Tower is the process of handing an aircraft from Approach Control to Aerodrome Control for landing.

The Approach Controller shall ensure that aircraft are transferred in a stable, correctly spaced, and predictable condition.

6.6.2 Conditions for Transfer

The Approach Controller shall transfer aircraft only when:

  • The aircraft is established on final approach
  • The aircraft is stable and correctly configured
  • Spacing with preceding traffic is appropriate
  • No further vectoring or speed control is required

Transfer shall not be made if further intervention is expected.

6.6.3 Timing of Transfer

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Transfer aircraft in sufficient time for Tower to assume control
  • Avoid late transfers close to touchdown
  • Ensure communication is established before the aircraft reaches critical phases

Transfer shall support smooth continuation of the approach.

6.6.4 Phraseology

Standard phraseology shall be used:

Contact Tower 118.1.

6.6.5 Controller Responsibilities

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Ensure spacing is correct prior to transfer
  • Confirm the aircraft is established and stable
  • Coordinate with Tower where required
  • Maintain responsibility until transfer is complete

The Tower Controller assumes responsibility once two-way communication is established or as defined by local procedures.

6.6.6 Coordination

The Approach Controller shall coordinate with Tower when:

  • Spacing is non-standard
  • Multiple arrivals are closely sequenced
  • Abnormal or priority situations exist

Coordination shall be clear and timely.

6.6.7 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Transfer aircraft in unstable conditions
  • Transfer aircraft with insufficient spacing
  • Transfer aircraft requiring further control intervention

6.6.8 Key Principle

Transfer to Tower shall be smooth, stable, and predictable.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Deliver aircraft correctly
  • Avoid last-minute corrections
  • Ensure Tower can continue without intervention

A correct transfer requires no corrective action from Tower.