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9.8 Best Practice

9.8.1 General

Best practice in coordination is achieved through early communication, clear procedures, and shared situational awareness.

The Approach Controller shall apply coordination techniques that ensure safe, efficient, and predictable operations.

9.8.2 Core Practices

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Coordinate early rather than reactively
  • Use clear, concise, and standard phraseology
  • Maintain shared situational awareness with adjacent units
  • Confirm critical information explicitly

Coordination shall be proactive and continuous.

9.8.3 Coordination Discipline

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Ensure all coordination is understood and acknowledged
  • Use standard procedures and agreements (LOAs / SOPs)
  • Anticipate coordination requirements (e.g. missed approaches, sequencing changes)
  • Maintain awareness of traffic transferred to and from adjacent units

9.8.4 Limitations

The Approach Controller shall not:

  • Assume the receiving controller is aware of traffic or intentions
  • Rely on incomplete or ambiguous coordination
  • Delay coordination until a situation becomes critical
  • Issue clearances that conflict with adjacent units

9.8.5 Professional Standard

Effective coordination shall result in:

  • Smooth and continuous traffic flow
  • Stable and predictable aircraft operations
  • Minimal requirement for corrective intervention
  • Reduced workload across all control positions

9.8.6 Key Takeaway

Effective coordination is often unnoticed when performed correctly.

The Approach Controller shall:

  • Communicate clearly
  • Confirm critical actions
  • Maintain shared awareness

Poor coordination is immediately visible and often results in increased workload or risk.