Operations Manual

How we run the network

This page describes how Latitude ATC operates inside Roblox. It covers both sides of the network, the controller positions, and the standards we hold ourselves to.

Scope of this manual

Everything below applies to the Latitude ATC Roblox community only. It is not real-world air traffic guidance, and we hold no authority over any actual aircraft or airspace.

On The Network

Pilot and controller operations

A session works when both sides know what they are doing. These are the responsibilities on each side.

Pilot operations

Pilots are expected to operate their aircraft properly and to cooperate with the controller assigned to them.

  • Request permission to taxi and a departure clearance before moving.
  • Follow the taxi instructions given, including assigned gates and routes.
  • Comply with every clearance. Ask for clarification rather than guessing.
  • Stay on published procedures and observe any stated restrictions.
  • Keep radio discipline and remain attentive to instructions.
  • Never cause or allow an intentional collision.

ATC operations

Controllers manage the flow of traffic on the network and are responsible for keeping operations organised.

  • Only work a position you are currently authorised for.
  • Issue clearances and taxi instructions clearly and without delay.
  • Maintain separation between aircraft at all times.
  • Coordinate traffic with the neighbouring position before handing over.
  • Brief arriving pilots on anything relevant to their flight.
  • Log and report issues so staff can follow up.

Positions

The position ladder

Controllers work in four positions. Each one carries more responsibility than the last, and you move through them as you gain experience.

New controllers begin at Ground. You only move to the next position once you are comfortable and have been signed off by staff.

Authorisation matters

Working a position without the relevant authorisation is against the rules, no matter how experienced you feel.

01

Ground

Handles taxiing, parking and departure routing. Where every new controller begins — it is the best place to learn how the network fits together.

02

Local

Sequences departures and hands aircraft off to the next position. You begin coordinating with Tower rather than working alone.

03

Tower

Issues landing clearances, manages runway coordination and handles arrivals within the field.

04

Approach

Manages arriving traffic and sequences aircraft towards the field, coordinating with Tower on the handover.

Clearances

Clearances and taxi instructions

Clearances are permission to do something. If you have not been given it, do not assume it. This is the single most common source of confusion on the network.

For pilots

  • Do not move on your own until you have been told to. If you did not hear it, ask again.
  • Read back clearances that require it, and confirm your assigned gate.
  • Leave the runway as soon as you are clear. Holding up traffic helps nobody.
  • If you miss an instruction, tell the controller rather than guessing.
  • Keep all communications on the assigned channel.

For controllers

  • Be clear and concise. Standard phrasing reduces misunderstanding for everyone.
  • Issue instructions to one aircraft at a time and confirm they were heard.
  • Do not issue a clearance the pilot has not requested or is not ready for.
  • Anticipate conflicts and resolve them before they develop.
  • Never delegate a position to someone who is not authorised for it.

Emergency scenarios are not permitted

Do not roleplay or simulate an emergency under any circumstances. This includes declared MAYDAY and PAN calls, as well as less formal emergency scenarios used for fun. There is no exception to this rule.

Communication

Communication standards

Everyone on the network speaks the same way. That consistency is what makes it easy for new members to join in.

Use the assigned channel

Each position and frequency has a purpose. Traffic goes where it is supposed to go, which keeps the channels readable.

Keep it brief

Short, accurate transmissions. Say what you need, and nothing that distracts other aircraft.

Answer the question

When a controller asks for something, respond. Queries about whether you are exempt or simply curious are fine — asking is always allowed.

Separation

Keeping traffic separated

Separation means making sure aircraft are never placed in a situation where they could conflict. On the ground it is mostly about spacing and sequence; in the air it is about sequencing and altitude.

Controllers are responsible for maintaining separation on their position. Pilots are responsible for following the clearances they are given.

Neither side is ever in trouble for asking a question. Both sides are in trouble for pressing on without communicating.

On the ground

  • Sequence departures so only one aircraft is moving into a runway at a time.
  • Do not issue a takeoff instruction to an aircraft that is not ready.
  • Keep the runway clear once an aircraft is cleared to land.
  • Watch for aircraft holding on taxiways blocking a route.

In the air

  • Sequence arriving aircraft and brief them on traffic where relevant.
  • Coordinate the handover between positions before an aircraft arrives.
  • Resolve developing conflicts early, not after they have developed.
  • Never intentionally create a conflict, however temporary.

Training

Training and progression

Nobody is expected to know what they are doing from the first session. Here is how new members get up to speed.

Apply

Submit an application for the role you want and wait for staff to review it.

Verify

Confirm your Roblox account through the verification process in Discord.

Training

Work alongside an experienced member and learn the position with supervision.

Sign off

Once staff are satisfied, you are authorised for that position and can work independently.

Ready to take a position?

Read the rules, then submit an application. We will take it from there.

Position summary

  • Ground — taxi, parking, departures
  • Local — departure sequencing
  • Tower — runway and arrivals
  • Approach — inbound sequencing