What is the primary function of an Air Traffic Control Tower?

The primary function of an Air Traffic Control Tower is to control aircraft on the runway and in the air. Air traffic controllers in the tower are responsible for directing the movements of aircraft during takeoff, landing, and while they are taxiing on the ground. This involves maintaining safe distances between aircraft, coordinating the timing of departures and arrivals, and providing necessary instructions to pilots to ensure safe and efficient operations in the airspace surrounding the airport. By managing the flow of traffic both in the air and on the runways, the control tower plays a critical role in maintaining aviation safety.

While monitoring flight weather is important for overall aviation safety, it is not the primary function of the tower itself. Airport security management and handling baggage logistics are responsibilities that fall outside the scope of air traffic control, focusing instead on ensuring passenger safety and the efficient operation of terminal activities.