What is the primary aim of approach and departure control in aviation?

The primary aim of approach and departure control is to manage the arrival and departure phases of flights within terminal airspace. This involves guiding aircraft safely and efficiently as they transition into and out of controlled airspace, ensuring proper spacing and sequencing of aircraft to prevent collisions and minimize delays. Approach control is responsible for directing aircraft as they approach an airport, while departure control manages aircraft leaving the airport, facilitating a smooth and safe flow of air traffic.

The roles of coordinating gate assignments, maintaining communication with ground services, and overseeing baggage handling procedures, although important for airport operations, do not encompass the primary functions of approach and departure control. These aspects are typically handled by other airport staff and management systems that focus on ground operations and logistics rather than the critical airborne phases of flight.