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ATC's first duty priority is to separate aircraft and issue safety alerts. ATC will
provide additional services to the extent possible, contingent only upon higher priority
duties and other factors that include limitations of radar, and workload associated with
volume of traffic and frequency congestion.
Generally, when weather disrupts the flow of air traffic, greater separation demands are
placed on the controllers. Try not to wait until the very last moment before asking for
deviations from course, or for assistance to get around or away from areas of severe weather.
When severe weather is in the area, controllers will be very busy and may not be able
to respond to your requests promptly. When encountering weather conditions that threaten
the safety of the aircraft and its occupants, the pilot may exercise emergency authority
as stated in 14 CFR 91.3 should an immediate deviation from the assigned clearance be
necessary, and time does not permit approval by ATC. It is better to think ahead and be
prepared so that you do not have to resort to emergency action.
About the Author
Christine Soucy is with FAA's Office of Accident Investigation, Accident
Coordination Branch.
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