Terminal control areas (TCAs and MTCAs)
Terminal control area (TCA):
- Worked by terminal control unit (TCU). ACC takes over when TCU is off.
- Established at high-volume traffic airports.
- Provides IFR control service to arriving, departing and en route aircraft.
- Rules set by the airspace class (TC AIM RAC 2.8).
Normal shape: 3 circles on the primary aerodrome. Floor never below 700 ft AGL.
| Circle | Radius | Floor |
|---|---|---|
| Outer | 45 NM | 9,500 ft AGL |
| Intermediate | 35 NM | 2,200 ft AGL |
| Inner | 12 NM | 1,200 ft AGL |
Military TCA (MTCA) (TC AIM RAC 2.7.6):
- TCA shape, plus special military provisions.
- Worked by military TCU or ATC under DND agreement.
References
- TC AIM RAC 2.7.6
- TC AIM RAC 2.8