Tower En Route Control (TEC) refers to which control concept?

• A. The control of IFR en route traffic within delegated airspace between two or more adjacent approach control facilities, designed to expedite traffic and reduce control and pilot communication requirements.
• B. Control of VFR traffic within tower airspace
• C. Weather advisory service
• D. Maintenance of airports

Answer: (A)

Tower En Route Control is a coordination method for IFR traffic that lies between adjacent approach control facilities. In this setup, a defined TEC airspace lets one facility provide en route separation for aircraft as they move from the jurisdiction of one approach control to another. The goal is to speed the flow of traffic and reduce both controller workload and pilot radio communication requirements by streamlined handoffs and shared situational awareness. This concept specifically applies to IFR traffic in the en route environment and is not about VFR operations, weather advisories, or airport maintenance.