Airport Traffic Control Tower

A central operations facility in the terminal air traffic control system, which consists of a tower cab structure, including an associated IFR room if radar equipped, and uses air/ground communications, radar, visual signaling, and other services to provide safe and expeditious movement of terminal air traffic. (FAA2)

A terminal facility that uses air-ground radio communications, visual signaling, and other devices to provide Air Traffic Control (ATC) services to aircraft operating in the vicinity of an airport or on the movement area. Authorizes aircraft to land or takeoff at the airport controlled by the tower or to transit the airport traffic area regardless of flight plan or weather conditions (Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR)). A tower may also provide approach control services. (FAA8) (FAA13) (FAA14)