An arriving aircraft SHALL be informed when radar service is terminated at tower-controlled airports where radar coverage does NOT exist to within how many miles of the end of the runway?

In the context of air traffic control, specifically regarding procedures at tower-controlled airports where radar coverage is absent, it is critical to inform arriving aircraft when radar service is terminated. This ensures that pilots are aware of their navigation responsibilities once they leave the radar environment.

The standard is that pilots must be informed when radar service is terminated at a distance of 1/2 mile from the end of the runway. This distance allows arriving aircraft sufficient time to transition to visual navigation and prepare for landing, aligning with safety protocols by ensuring that they have the necessary situational awareness as they approach the airport.

Maintaining communication and providing timely information is vital for the safety of operations, especially in areas lacking radar coverage, where pilots need to rely on their instruments and visual cues for the final approach and landing. Therefore, the regulatory guidance mandates that the termination of radar service must be communicated to arriving aircraft at this specific distance to optimize safety and efficiency during landing operations.