What authority do air traffic controllers (ATC) hold?

Air traffic controllers (ATC) possess a critical authority that encompasses the safe and efficient management of air traffic, which includes issuing instructions to both vehicles on the ground, such as those on taxiways and runways, as well as to aircraft in the airspace. This authority is essential for coordinating movements to prevent collisions and ensure smooth operations at busy airports.

By managing aircraft takeoff, landing, and taxiing, ATC plays a vital role in maintaining safety in increasingly congested airspace. This also includes ensuring that ground vehicles adhere to safe practices and follow the designated paths during operations on the runway and taxiways. The ability to direct both vehicles and aircraft, rather than limiting authority to only one of these categories, highlights the comprehensive role that air traffic controllers play in the aviation system.