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9.5 Departure Coordination

9.5.1 General

Departure coordination between Tower (TWR) and Approach (APP) ensures that departing aircraft are safely integrated into controlled airspace without conflict with arriving traffic.

The Approach Controller shall manage departures to maintain separation and protect the arrival sequence.

9.5.2 Tower Responsibilities

The Tower Controller shall:

  • Issue take-off clearance
  • Coordinate with Approach where required
  • Transfer departing aircraft to Approach at the appropriate time

Take-off clearance shall not be issued where departure would create a conflict.

9.5.3 Approach Controller Responsibilities

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Provide climb, heading, or routing instructions
  • Ensure separation from arriving and other departing aircraft
  • Integrate departures into the traffic flow
  • Maintain awareness of all departures under control

9.5.4 Departure Release

Where required, the Tower Controller shall obtain a departure release from Approach prior to issuing take-off clearance.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Approve or restrict departures based on traffic conditions
  • Ensure departures can be safely integrated
  • Protect arrival paths and airspace

No departure shall be released if separation cannot be assured.

9.5.5 Conflict Management

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Protect final approach and arrival paths
  • Ensure departures do not conflict with arriving aircraft
  • Apply headings, levels, or delays as required
  • Act immediately to resolve developing conflicts

9.5.6 Transfer of Control

The Tower Controller shall transfer communication to Approach after departure.

The Approach Controller assumes responsibility when:

  • Two-way communication is established, or
  • As defined by local procedures

The Tower Controller remains responsible until transfer of control is complete.

9.5.7 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Allow departures to disrupt the arrival sequence
  • Approve departures that cannot be safely integrated
  • Delay conflict resolution once identified

9.5.8 Key Principle

Departures shall be integrated without affecting arrival safety or stability.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Coordinate early
  • Protect arrival flows
  • Maintain separation at all times

Departures shall not disrupt the arrival sequence.