How does the air traffic control system operate now?
Currently the Baltimore-Washington region is served by four major airports – Baltimore – Washington International (BWI), Dulles International, Ronald Reagan Washington National, and Andrews Air Force Base – all located within a geographic area typically served by only one airport. Each of these four airports has its own air traffic control tower and, before the Potomac Consolidated TRACON became operational, had its own TRACON. First, there is the tower. This is the most recognizable air traffic control function to the public. The tower is physically located at the airport and controls traffic on the taxiways, runways, and aircraft approaching and departing generally within two to five miles of the airport. Visual contact with aircraft is important for tower operations. Each of the major airports in the metro area has a tower today and the towers remain even now that the consolidated TRACON is operational. The towers are and will continue to work closely with the airport authority Metr
