What is the primary function of radar in air traffic control?

The primary function of radar in air traffic control is to provide tracking and surveillance of aircraft positions. This capability is essential for maintaining safe separation distances between aircraft in the busy airspace and ensuring that air traffic controllers have real-time information about the location, altitude, speed, and direction of each aircraft.

Radar systems facilitate the monitoring of both en route and terminal air traffic, allowing for efficient management of aircraft during takeoff, landing, and while in-flight. The continuous tracking of aircraft positions helps controllers make informed decisions regarding traffic flow, identify potential conflicts, and implement timely instructions to pilots.

Other options, while relevant to aviation safety and operations, do not capture the primary role of radar in air traffic control. Communicating flight instructions involves voice communication with pilots, which is a separate process. Measuring weather conditions falls within meteorological support rather than the core function of radar. Navigation, while crucial, is primarily aided by different systems and technologies that work in conjunction with radar rather than relying solely on it for guidance.