AERN 320 - ATC Fundamentals II

(3 hour(s)) Prerequisites: AERN 286. An undergraduate course in the study of aviation weather, air traffic control (ATC) communications, and basic controller procedures that build directly on ATC Fundamentals I (AERN 286). Students will learn the structure and behavior of the atmosphere as it relates to flight, adverse and hazardous weather phenomena, and the suite of United States aviation weather products used by pilots and controllers. The course develops proficiency in decoding and interpreting meteorological aerodrome reports (METARs), terminal area forecasts (TAFs), in-flight advisories, winds and temperatures aloft, and pilot reports (PIREPs), to support air traffic management decisions. Students will examine ATC roles during emergencies and search and rescue, and practice standard radio phraseology, ATC clearances, coordination, and position relief briefings. The course introduces terminal and en route strip marking and integrates weather, communications, and strip usage in basic tower and radar scenarios. By the end of the course, students will be able to apply weather information and ATC procedures together to support safe, efficient operations in the National Airspace System.