Air Traffic Management
At the heart of the JCAA’s Air Navigation Services operations is our Air Traffic Management (ATM) Department, which is responsible for the safe and efficient movement of aircraft within the Kingston Flight Information Region (KFIR) — Jamaica’s airspace. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and industry-standard systems, the ATM Department ensures safe and seamless coordination for all flights operating in our airspace.
Our Air Traffic Services are structured to provide comprehensive coverage across different phases of flight:
Enroute and Terminal Control Services
The Kingston Air Traffic Control Centre (KATCC), located at JCAA Headquarters, manages aircraft enroute and in terminal airspace. Utilizing modern radar displays and automation systems, KATCC ensures precise navigation and coordination.
Aerodrome Control Services
Control towers at Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) and Sangster International Airport (SIA) manage aircraft movements on the ground and in the immediate airspace.
Aerodrome Flight Information Service
At Tinson Pen Aerodrome, Flight Information Officers provide critical information to pilots operating in non-controlled airspace, supporting safe flight decisions.
All facilities are staffed with highly trained and certified professionals, including:
- Air Traffic Control (ATC) Supervisors
- Air Traffic Controllers (Aerodrome, Approach, Area, and Radar Specialists)
- Flight Information Officers
- Flight Data Processors
The Kingston Flow Management Unit (KFMU), based at KATCC, plays a pivotal role in optimizing air traffic flow, reducing delays, and balancing airspace demand with capacity. Working closely with airlines, airports, and control centres, KFMU enhances efficiency and ensures smooth air traffic operations.
Behind every successful flight is a dedicated team of air traffic professionals who uphold the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
Flight Data Processors
Analyze and process essential flight data, supporting controllers in maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
Flight Information Officers
Provide critical flight data and advisory services to pilots at uncontrolled aerodromes, enabling informed and safe flight decisions.
Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs)
Manage the safe, orderly, and efficient flow of air traffic within controlled airspace and at Jamaica’s international airports to prevent collisions and ensure seamless operations.
Air Traffic Control (ATC) Supervisors
Provide operational oversight, guidance, and decision-making support, particularly in high-traffic or emergency situations.
Technical Assistants
Support administrative and operational functions to ensure the smooth execution of air traffic management processes.
Safety and efficiency are the top priorities of the JCAA’s ATM Department. Every team member is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of safety and efficiency to ensure the safety of passengers and crew and the smooth and efficient flow of air traffic.
Jamaica’s airspace, generally termed the Kingston Flight Information Region, is subdivided into a number of airspaces which may be controlled and uncontrolled. These airspaces are designated in accordance with the specific types of flights permitted, for which air traffic services and rules of operation are specified. The airspace categories of the Kingston FIR are A; D; E and G. Within these airspaces, a network of routes, as well as arrival and departure procedures are established. They are used by flights, under the direction of Air Traffic Controllers who apply spacing techniques and procedures to ensure their safe and efficient movement through the airspace.
Radar Coverage
JCAA operates three radar stations with dual primary and secondary surveillance radar (SSR) systems for redundancy and extended coverage:
- Primary radar coverage: Up to 120 nautical miles
- Secondary radar (SSR) coverage: Up to 250 nautical miles
Thales TopSky ATC System
Since 2017, JCAA has used theThales TopSky ATC system, a state-of-the-art air traffic management solution known for its advanced automation, robust safety protocols, and seamless integration capabilities. The system ensures enhanced operational efficiency and safety.
Explore the JCAA’s ATM Facilities
The Kingston Air Traffic Control Centre (KATCC):
The KATCC is the nerve centre of Jamaica’s air traffic control operations. It oversees air traffic flow within the Kingston FIR with precision and diligence.
The Norman Manley Aerodrome Control Unit (NMIA):
Located at the NMIA airport’s Air Traffic Control Tower, the Norman Manley Aerodrome Control Unit ensures the safe arrival and departure of aircraft at Norman Manley International Airport with meticulous attention to detail.
The Sangster Aerodrome Control Unit (SIA)
The Sangster Aerodrome Control Unit safeguards the skies above Sangster International Airport, to facilitate safe, seamless and efficient operations for incoming and outgoing flights.
Tinson Pen Aerodrome Flight Information Service Unit (TPN AFISU):
The Tinson Pen Aerodrome Flight Information Service Unit provides vital flight information services to pilots operating in and out of the Tinson Pen Aerodrome, to ensure clear communication and safe navigation.
The Kingston FIR Flow Management Unit (KFMU):
The Kingston Flight Information Region Flow Management Unit optimises airspace usage and traffic flow, to enhance efficiency and safety throughout the Kingston FIR.
Join the Future of Air Traffic Management
Interested in a career in aviation?
Learn more about opportunities in Air Traffic Control and Flight Information Services at JCAA.