There is no publicly known or documented system or agency called "Federal Flight Control 00." This phrase likely doesn't refer to a real entity. The combination of words suggests a government-related air traffic control system, but no such system exists within the known structure of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or any other federal agency in the United States. It's possible this phrase:
- Is fictional: It could be from a book, movie, video game, or other work of fiction.
- Is a misremembering: The actual name might be slightly different, or the person recalling the phrase is mistaken.
- Is a code name or internal designation: Highly classified government operations sometimes use cryptic names. However, information about such operations is extremely unlikely to be publicly available.
- Is a hoax or misunderstanding: False information can spread quickly online.
This article will explore what we do know about air traffic control in the US and related systems, to help clarify why "Federal Flight Control 00" is likely not a real thing.
Understanding the US Air Traffic Control System
The United States' air traffic control system is complex and highly regulated, overseen primarily by the FAA. Instead of a single, centralized "Federal Flight Control," it's a network of interconnected facilities and systems. Let's break down some key components:
Air Route Traffic Control Centers (ARTCCs)
These are the major control centers responsible for directing air traffic over large geographical areas. ARTCCs use radar and communication systems to track and manage aircraft in their airspace. They don't use numbered designations like "00." Instead, they are identified by their location (e.g., Jacksonville ARTCC, ZJX).
Terminal Radar Approach Controls (TRACONs)
TRACONs manage the flow of air traffic in the airspace around major airports. They handle aircraft during their approach and departure phases. Like ARTCCs, they are identified by location, not numbers.
Airport Tower
Each major airport has an air traffic control tower that guides aircraft during take-off and landing, as well as taxiing on the ground. Again, these are identified by airport codes, not numerical designations.
NextGen Air Transportation System
The FAA is constantly upgrading its air traffic control infrastructure with the NextGen system, which aims to improve efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability through technologies like GPS-based navigation and data communications. Even within NextGen, there's no indication of a system named "Federal Flight Control 00".
How Air Traffic Control Works: A Simplified View
Here's a basic overview of how air traffic control interacts with aircraft:
- Flight Plan Filing: Before takeoff, pilots file flight plans outlining their intended route and altitude.
- Clearance and Handoff: Controllers provide clearance for takeoff and then hand off aircraft between different control facilities as they progress along their flight path.
- Radar Tracking: Controllers monitor aircraft using radar, ensuring they maintain safe separation from other aircraft.
- Communication: Controllers communicate with pilots via radio, providing instructions and updates.
- Landing: Controllers guide aircraft during the approach and landing phases.
This process is standardized and rigorously documented. The absence of any information about "Federal Flight Control 00" within this established framework strongly suggests it does not exist.
Conclusion: The Illusion of "Federal Flight Control 00"
While the phrase "Federal Flight Control 00" sounds plausible at first glance, a thorough examination reveals no evidence of its existence within the official structure of US air traffic management. Its appearance likely stems from fiction, a misunderstanding, or misinformation. The real-world system is far more complex and transparent than a single, mysteriously numbered control center would suggest. If you encountered this phrase in a specific context (e.g., a book, movie, or online forum), providing that context might help determine its origin and meaning.