Air Traffic Management, which incorporates both airborne and ground-based functions, such as Air Traffic Services, Airspace Management and Air Traffic Flow Management, is responsible for ensuring the safe and efficient movement of aircraft, during all phases of operation, within the airspaces of Jamaica and its territorial waters. This responsibility also extends to delegated airspaces over international waters and the Cayman Islands.

How is the Airspace Organized?

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.

Air Traffic Services

Area (Enroute) Control and Approach (Terminal) Control Services are provided by the Kingston Air Traffic Control Centre located the JCAA’s Headquarters, utilizing modern radar display and automation systems. Aerodrome (Tower) Control Services are provided by air traffic control towers located at the Norman Manley and Sangster International Airports. Aerodrome Flight Information Service is provided at the Tinson Pen Aerodrome in Kingston. All facilities are staffed with trained and certified personnel. These include Air Traffic Controllers – i.e. Area Radar Controllers, Approach Radar Controllers, Tower Controllers; Flight Data Processors; and Aerodrome Flight Information Officers.

Radars

There are three air traffic radar stations with dual, primary and secondary radars located in Jamaica. These radar stations are all integrated to provide the requisite redundancy. Primary radar coverage extends 60 – 120 nautical miles and Secondary Surveillance Radar (SSR) coverage up to 250 nautical miles.