Who is responsible for initiating and receiving manual handoffs?

The responsibility for initiating and receiving manual handoffs in radar operations typically lies with the Radar Controller. This role is crucial in ensuring that aircraft are safely transitioned from one controller's airspace to another, maintaining continuous communication and situational awareness.

The radar controller has specialized training and authority to manage air traffic, including coordination during handoffs, ensuring that all relevant information about an aircraft—such as its position, altitude, and intended flight path—is communicated effectively to the next controller. This process is vital for maintaining air traffic safety and efficiency, as it helps to avoid any potential conflicts between aircraft.

While other roles, such as the Flight Operations Manager, Student, or Ground Control Officer, play important parts in the overall function of air traffic management, it is the Radar Controller who has the primary responsibility for manual handoffs. Students may be in training to understand this process but would not typically assume this responsibility until they have gained the necessary experience and certification.