What should controllers do if they have control messages to transmit?

When controllers have control messages to transmit, it is essential that they interrupt with the appropriate phrase. This approach ensures that important information is conveyed promptly without causing confusion or delays in communication. In a busy air traffic control environment, timely communication is critical for maintaining safety and efficiency.

Using an appropriate phrase to interrupt indicates that the controller has urgent information or instructions that need to be communicated immediately. This behavior adheres to standard communication protocols, ensuring that all parties understand the priority of the message being transmitted.

In contrast, ignoring ongoing transmissions could lead to significant safety issues, as controllers might miss critical information or fail to provide instructions to pilots in a timely manner. Announcing the priority of a message is not sufficient on its own, as it may not ensure that the urgent message is received and acted upon promptly. Delaying the transmission until the conversation is over could also result in dangerous situations, especially if the information is time-sensitive. Therefore, interrupting with the appropriate phrase is the most effective method for conveying control messages.