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9.3 APP ↔ ACC Coordination

9.3.1 General

Coordination between Area Control (ACC) and Approach Control (APP) ensures the safe and efficient transfer of inbound aircraft into the terminal environment.

The Approach Controller shall integrate inbound traffic into the arrival sequence while maintaining separation and stability.

9.3.2 Inbound Transfer from ACC

The ACC Controller shall transfer aircraft to Approach:

  • At an agreed level
  • With appropriate spacing
  • On correct routing or cleared trajectory
  • In accordance with published procedures or LOAs

Transfers shall support efficient sequencing within the TMA.

9.3.3 Approach Controller Responsibilities

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Accept inbound aircraft in a timely manner
  • Establish radar identification where required
  • Integrate aircraft into the arrival sequence
  • Provide descent, speed control, and vectoring
  • Maintain separation from other traffic

9.3.4 Transfer Conditions

Aircraft transferred from ACC shall:

  • Be correctly identified (where applicable)
  • Be on the correct frequency
  • Be positioned to allow efficient integration

The Approach Controller shall verify transfer conditions prior to accepting control.

9.3.5 Coordination Requirements

The Approach Controller shall coordinate with ACC when:

  • Spacing is insufficient
  • Level or routing is not suitable
  • Traffic demand exceeds capacity
  • Non-standard or priority situations exist

Coordination shall be clear, timely, and explicit.

9.3.6 Transfer of Communication and Control

Transfer of communication occurs when the aircraft is instructed to contact Approach.

Transfer of control occurs when:

  • The Approach Controller accepts the aircraft, or
  • Two-way communication is established, as defined by local procedures

ACC remains responsible until transfer of control is complete.

9.3.7 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Accept aircraft that cannot be safely integrated
  • Assume spacing or positioning is adequate without verification
  • Delay coordination when issues are identified

9.3.8 Key Principle

Inbound traffic shall be delivered in a condition suitable for sequencing.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Verify transfer conditions
  • Integrate traffic efficiently
  • Maintain separation at all times

Approach should receive traffic ready to be sequenced, not corrected.