Airport Traffic Control Tower1

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)