radarcontrol.io docs

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What is radarcontrol.io? ​

radarcontrol.io is an interactive air traffic control simulation that runs in your browser. Manage aircraft like a real controller - issue clearances, maintain separation, and coordinate traffic through busy airspace sectors.

You can control aircraft in two ways:

  • Manually - click aircraft, type commands, issue clearances in real-time
  • With code - write Javascript to automate traffic management

This is an early preview and is under heavy development by balintb. Expect logic, API, styling issues.

Overview ​

The simulation provides a realistic ATC environment with two control modes:

Interactive Mode: Take direct control like a real ATC controller - click aircraft, type commands like AAL123 cfl200 s400 dr KMART, or use control buttons for quick actions.

Code Mode: Write Javascript that automates traffic management - perfect for handling complex scenarios with multiple aircraft.

Both modes provide:

  • Real aircraft types with accurate performance characteristics
  • Waypoint-based routing through defined airspace sectors
  • Separation requirements (5nm lateral or 1000ft vertical)
  • Real-time radar display with conflict prediction

How It Works ​

Interactive Mode ​

Take direct control of aircraft - click them on the radar, type commands, or use the control panel:

Text Commands:

AAL123 cfl200 s400 dr KMART    # Climb FL200, speed 400, direct KMART
DAL456 c10000ft s250           # Descend 10,000ft, speed 250

Control Panel:

  • Click an aircraft to select it
  • Use the altitude, speed, and routing buttons for quick commands
  • Type commands with autocomplete for waypoints and callsigns

Perfect for hands-on control and learning real ATC procedures.

Code Mode ​

Use the built-in editor (same as VS Code) to write your traffic management logic:

javascript
onSpawn((aircraft) => {
  // Initial clearances for new aircraft
  aircraft
    .climb(fl(aircraft.plan.cruiseFL))
    .speed(420);

  // Set up handover at exit
  aircraft.over(aircraft.plan.exitPoint, (ac) => {
    ac.handover();
  });
});

onTick(({ traffic }) => {
  // Manage spacing between aircraft
  const flights = traffic.all();

  for (let i = 0; i < flights.length - 1; i++) {
    const lead = flights[i];
    const trail = flights[i + 1];

    const dist = distance(trail.pos, lead.pos);

    if (dist < 8) {
      trail.speed(Math.max(lead.targetIASKts - 30, 320));
    }
  }
});
Load into sim

Click "Load Script" or press Ctrl+Enter to run your code. Aircraft appear and follow your coded instructions automatically.

Core Concepts ​

Event Handlers ​

Your code responds to events:

  • onSpawn() - Called when new aircraft enter your sector
  • onTick() - Called every simulation tick (~0.5s) for continuous management
  • onConflict() - Called when aircraft are predicted to lose separation

Aircraft Control ​

Control aircraft using methods:

javascript
aircraft.climb(fl(350))        // Climb to FL350
aircraft.descend(fl(240))      // Descend to FL240
aircraft.speed(420)            // Set speed to 420 knots
aircraft.direct("KMART")       // Direct to waypoint
aircraft.offset(2)             // Offset 2nm right
aircraft.handover()            // Clear for handover

Waypoint Events ​

React to aircraft reaching waypoints:

javascript
// Execute action when aircraft reaches waypoint
aircraft.over("KMART", (ac) => {
  ac.climb(fl(380));
});

// Execute action before reaching waypoint
aircraft.before("MERGE", 30, (ac) => {
  ac.speed(320);
});

// Ensure constraint is met at waypoint
aircraft.reach("EXIT").altitude(fl(240));

Helper Functions ​

Utility functions for calculations:

javascript
distance(ac1.pos, ac2.pos)     // Distance in nm
headingTo(from, to)            // Heading in degrees
fl(350)                        // Convert FL to feet (35000)
log("message")                 // Activity panel output

Use Cases ​

Basic Traffic Management ​

Maintain separation between aircraft using speed control and altitude assignments.

Conflict Resolution ​

Detect and resolve potential conflicts before they become separation violations.

Sequencing & Metering ​

Sequence aircraft at merge points with precise timing and spacing.

Custom Procedures ​

Implement custom arrival/departure procedures, holding patterns, or flow control.

Getting Started ​

  1. Start the simulation - Aircraft will begin spawning in your sector
  2. Try the default script - See how basic traffic management works
  3. Modify the code - Experiment with different control strategies
  4. Check the API reference - Learn about all available methods and properties

Tips ​

  • Use log() to debug and understand what your code is doing
  • Start simple, add complexity gradually
  • Radar display shows predcted tracks (dotted lines) to help anticipate conflicts
  • Press Ctrl+Space in the editor for autocomplete suggestions

What's Next? ​

  • Read the API Reference for complete documentation
  • Experiment with different traffic patterns
  • Try implementing advanced separation techniques
  • Share your scripts and strategies

Ready to start? Head over to radarcontrol.io and begin managing air traffic!