Introduction to LOAs and SOPs - Vocabulary Flashcards

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to LOAs (Letters of Agreement) and SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) in air traffic control.

Letters of Agreement (LOA)

A formal interfacility document that standardizes operations and procedures between a facility and other entities, detailing responsibilities, required actions, airspace needs, and coordination.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

Intrafacility operating procedures that define position responsibilities, sector boundaries, and procedures to maintain safe and efficient operations; located in facility directives.

Interfacility Coordination

LOAs and procedures between different ATC facilities to supplement instructions and define radar handoffs, Transfer of Control/Communications Points (TCPs), and shared responsibilities.

Intrafacility Coordination

Coordination within the same facility, governed by SOPs, describing internal responsibilities and sector boundaries.

ATCT

Air Traffic Control Tower facility; commonly involved in LOAs with other entities to standardize operations.

ARTCC/TRACON

Air Route Traffic Control Center and Terminal Radar Approach Control; facilities that establish LOAs and interfacility coordination with other entities.

Transfer of Control/Communications Points (TCPs)

Defined points where control and communications are transferred between ATC facilities.

Radar Handoff Procedures

Procedures for transferring radar responsibility and tracking of aircraft between facilities.

Approach Control Service

ATC service responsible for arrival/departure sequencing and separation, often defined within LOAs/SOPs.

Control Boundary Jurisdiction

The geographic area of responsibility assigned to an ATC position or sector.

Special VFR (SVFR) Operations

Special operating conditions for VFR flights under controlled airspace; may be specified in LOAs for safety and coordination.

Local Owners/Operators

Local aviation operators with LOAs establishing call signs and airspace segregation requirements for communications with ATC.

Airport Management

Entity responsible for airport operations under LOAs, including equipment, emergency services, braking action reports, hazard reporting, and movement/non-movement area delineation.

Movement and Non-Movement Areas

Areas within an airport surface with defined responsibilities; part of LOA scope for airport management and operations.

Military Facilities LOA

LOA describing procedures to support military requirements (training flights, flight tests) and delineate special airspace needs.

Reviewing and Approval Authority

The entity authorized to approve LOAs, typically the Service Area Office, with possible delegation to ATREP, ATM, or RADLO.

ATREP (Air Traffic Representative)

An official who may be delegated LOA approval authority.

ATM (Air Traffic Manager)

Official who may be delegated LOA approval authority.

RADLO (Regional Air Defense Liaison Officer)

Official who may be delegated LOA approval authority.

LOA Format

Structure of an LOA, typically including Purpose, Cancellation, Scope, Responsibilities, and Procedures.

Informal Noise Abatement Requirements

LOA-stipulated measures to reduce noise near an airport, such as runway usage restrictions and timing.

Recommended Arrival and Departure Procedures

LOA/SOP guidance on arrivals/departures, including descent altitudes and sequencing to balance safety and noise considerations.

FAA Orders JO 7210.3 and JO 1320.1

FAA directives governing Facility Operation and Administration (JO 7210.3) and Directives Management (JO 1320.1), which establish the framework for LOAs and SOPs.