What is the role of an en-route controller?

The role of an en-route controller is to manage aircraft that are flying at cruising altitude along established airways. These controllers are responsible for ensuring the safe separation of aircraft in flight, providing navigation assistance, and coordinating communications among pilots while they are in the en-route phase of their flight. This includes monitoring altitude, speed, and course corrections as aircraft travel between departure and arrival airports.

In contrast, other functions such as managing takeoffs and landings at airports are the responsibilities of tower controllers. Overseeing ground traffic on airport runways involves ground controllers who manage the movements of aircraft on the ground. Additionally, coordinating weather reports, while crucial for flight safety, falls within the purview of meteorological services and not directly under the responsibilities of en-route controllers. Therefore, the primary function of an en-route controller clearly lies in managing aircraft once they’re airborne and operating within controlled airspace.