What does the acronym SOP stand for in the context of air traffic control?

In the context of air traffic control, the acronym SOP stands for Standard Operating Procedures. These are the established guidelines and protocols that air traffic controllers follow to ensure safe and efficient operations in the control of aircraft. SOPs provide a consistent framework for decision-making and actions taken during various scenarios, thereby enhancing safety and reducing the potential for errors.

By adhering to these standard procedures, air traffic personnel can coordinate more effectively, manage complex situations, and ensure that all team members are on the same page regarding their roles and responsibilities. This uniformity in operations is critical for maintaining high safety standards in the dynamic and often high-pressure environment of aviation.