Carolyn C. Smith
The dynamic nature of the growth of science and technology in our century, and their impact on society as well as on the individual, are nowhere better evident than in the fulfillment of man’s ancient dream to fly through the air. Born within the lifetime of many of us, aviation has also grown. First it was slow and as time went on it became more rapid. Today, it has removed the barriers of space and time between the peoples of the earth.
Aviation was one of the earliest of the technologies of this century to require the intimate partnership of scientists, engineers, and industrialists of many skills to accomplish rapid progress at the frontiers of knowledge. No single human mind could comprehend all the knowledge embodied in the design, construction, and operation of a jet transport. Today we have many such difficult and complex technological developments. Included in these developments are nuclear energy, high-speed electronic computers and space vehicles. Keeping in mind all of this, aviation was one of the earliest to move from the individual creation of the pioneer inventor to the product of a new social invention. The design team of specialists working in harmony like the members of a symphony orchestra were able to produce a result far beyond the capability of any individual.
Through the knowledge of many we have become acquainted with navigation and traffic control along the airways. Electronic devices are used to guide pilots through darkness and fog. These electronic devices have been used to improve stability and control aircraft.
When this unit, “Highways in the Sky”, is completed the following objectives will be accomplished.
The students will be able to.:
1. discuss how air traffic control can prevent collisions between aircraft in flight.
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2. discuss how air traffic control can prevent collisions between aircraft in the taxiing area of an airport and obstructions in that area.
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3. discuss how air traffic control can expedite and maintain an orderly flow of air traffic.
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4. discuss how air traffic control can provide advice and information useful for the safe and efficient conducts of flights.
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5. discuss how air traffic control can notify appropriate organizations regarding aircraft in need of search and rescue aid.
6. discuss how air traffic control can assist organizations during times of disaster and distress.
In order for an air traffic control service to be effective the following basic facilities are needed.
Centers—They are used to provide en route and area traffic control services.
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Towers—They control traffic on and in the vicinity of airports.
Flight Service Stations—They feed flight plan information into centers and towers as well as provide briefing services to pilots.
In general, the Air Traffic Control (ATC) System includes:
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1. Aircraft
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2. Airports
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3. Navigations and Communications Services
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4. Airborne and Ground Equipment
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5. Weather Services
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6. Rules, Regulations and Procedures
7. Controllers and Pilots
The limitations of this unit will not permit me to address all of these topics, therefore, I will concentrate mainly on 1) airports, 2) navigation, 3) weather services, and 4) rules and regulations. I will show you the effects they have on the safety of “Highways in the Sky”.
The teaching strategies of this unit will provide a strong correlation of Reading, Math, English, Science, Social Studies, and Art. The unit is designed to be completed in 4 6 weeks for students of grades 5-8. The abilities, strengths, and weaknesses of the students will increase or decrease the teaching time.
