FUNDAMENTALS OF AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL International Edition is an authoritative book that provides readers with a good working knowledge of how and why the air traffic control system works. This book is appropriate for future air traffic controllers, as well as for pilots who need a better understanding of the air traffic control system. FUNDAMENTALS OF AIR TRAFFIC CONTROL, International Edition discusses the history of air traffic control, emphasizing the logic that has guided its development. It also provides current, in-depth information on navigational systems, the air traffic control system structure, control tower procedures, radar separation, national airspace system operation and the FAA's restructured hiring procedures. This is the only college level book that gives readers a genuine understanding of the air traffic control system and does not simply require them to memorize lists of rules and regulations.

Automation in air traffic control may increase efficiency, but it also raises questions about adequate human control over automated systems. Following on the panel's first volume on air traffic control automation, Flight to the Future (NRC, 1997), this book focuses on the interaction of pilots and air traffic controllers, with a growing network of automated functions in the airspace system. The panel offers recommendations for development of human-centered automation, addressing key areas such as providing levels of automation that are appropriate to levels of risk, examining procedures for recovery from emergencies, free flight versus ground-based authority, and more. The book explores ways in which technology can build on human strengths and compensate for human vulnerabilities, minimizing both mistrust of automation and complacency about its abilities. The panel presents an overview of emerging technologies and trends toward automation within the national airspace systemâ€"in areas such as global positioning and other aspects of surveillance, flight information provided to pilots an controllers, collision avoidance, strategic long-term planning, and systems for training and maintenance. The book examines how to achieve better integration of research and development, including the importance of user involvement in air traffic control. It also discusses how to harmonize the wide range of functions in the national airspace system, with a detailed review of the free flight initiative.