Ground Movement Control
Also written as: GMC
The air traffic control function responsible for directing the movement of aircraft and vehicles on taxiways and aprons, distinct from runway and approach control.
Full Definition
Ground Movement Control (GMC), sometimes called Ground Control or Surface Movement Control, is the ATC position tasked with sequencing and directing the safe movement of aircraft and authorised vehicles on the manoeuvring area, excluding runways. GMC issues taxi instructions to aircraft after pushback and coordinates with the aerodrome controller for runway entry and exit. In editorial contexts, the term appears as a proper noun when referring to the specific position or frequency, and should be capitalised accordingly. Editors must distinguish it from Apron Management, which is an airport operator (not ATC) function.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalise as a proper noun when referring to the specific ATC position (e.g., 'contact Ground Movement Control on 121.9'). Use lowercase when used generically (e.g., 'ground movement control procedures').
In Context
- "After engine start, the captain called Ground Movement Control for push-back and taxi clearance." — Flight Operations Manual
- "The Ground Movement Control frequency must be listed in the aerodrome chart header." — Aerodrome Chart Editorial Checklist