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Sector coverage


Matthew Claudius 1471305
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Matthew Claudius 1471305
Posted
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Hi,

 

I'm new to VATSIM and there's something fundamental I don't understand. Is each controller covering only a single frequency? With worldwide coverage and limited controllers, it seems very unlikely that sector coverage would be contiguous. For example, if a controller is covering KSJC (San Jose, CA) tower, are they also likely covering KSJC delivery and ground, as well as the surrounding TRACON (NORCAL in this case)? If not, and these frequencies aren't covered, to whom do they hand aircraft off?

 

Thanks,

Matt

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Robert Shearman Jr
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A controller covers duties BELOW their position but never above. Tower will also handle Ground and Delivery. If there's no Approach or Departure, Tower will hand you straight to Center if there is one, or, "frequency change to advisories approved."

 

It is often the case where a single Center controller is not only covering ALL enroute duties within the ARTCC boundaries, but also ALL Terminal control (APP/DEP), all Towers, all Ground, and all Delivery unless pieces of them are staffed separately. Of course, our traffic levels are a fraction of the real world's, as well.

Cheers,
-R.

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Matthew Claudius 1471305
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I see, thank you for the explanation.

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Andrew Ogden
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Also noteworthy is the existence of a 'UNICOM' frequency (122.800). A controller may send you to this frequency if there is no other controller to send you to. This frequency acts like a universal CTAF, where you can communicate with other aircraft within a ten mile radius of your aircraft.

Andrew Ogden
Gander Oceanic OCA Chief
Vancouver FIR Senior Instructor

Visit us: https://ganderoceanic.ca
Contact: [email protected] 

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Robert Shearman Jr
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within a ten mile radius of your aircraft.

*thirty

 

Cheers,
-R.

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Nestor Perez
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Can confirm UNICOM range is a maximum of 15nm per aircraft, so (15+15) 30nm total.

Me.

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