Navy NEC · Aviation
F09A Facility Rated Terminal RADAR Approach (RAPCON) Controller
A Navy Enlisted Classification: a skill designation sailors hold in addition to their rating.
Overview
The Facility Rated Terminal RADAR Approach Controller controls IFR and VFR aircraft departing from or arriving at airfields within the facility's jurisdiction. This controller also manages aircraft transiting through the airspace covered by the Terminal RADAR Approach Control Facility.
Core Skills
- terminal radar approach control
- vfr ifr aircraft separation
- radar identification
- arrival departure sequencing
- heading altitude assignment
- clearance delivery
- terminal airspace surveillance
- pilot radio communication
- controller position coordination
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Adobe Acrobat
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Civilian Career Paths
- Air Traffic Control
- Aviation Management
Training & Development
Getting Started
- FAA Air Traffic Control Specialist Certification
- FAA Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate
Career Growth
- Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)
- Airport Certified Employee (ACE) Airfield Operations
Also Common
- FAA Control Tower Operator Certificate
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
What the Work Involves
- Inform pilots about nearby planes or potentially hazardous conditions, such as weather, speed and direction of wind, or visibility problems.
- Issue landing and take-off authorizations or instructions.
- Provide flight path changes or directions to emergency landing fields for pilots traveling in bad weather or in emergency situations.
- Transfer control of departing flights to traffic control centers and accept control of arriving flights.
- Alert airport emergency services in cases of emergency or when aircraft are experiencing difficulties.
Related Occupations
- Airfield Operations Specialists
- Commercial Pilots
- Airline Pilots, Copilots, and Flight Engineers
- Railroad Conductors and Yardmasters
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Equivalent Roles in Other Branches
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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