How are control towers and approach controls identified?

Control towers and approach controls are identified by the name of the facility followed by either "Tower" or "Approach." This naming convention provides clarity and consistency in communication among pilots and air traffic controllers. For example, an airport named "Springfield" would be identified as "Springfield Tower" for the control tower and "Springfield Approach" for the approach control. This standardized format helps to avoid confusion and ensures that all parties involved in air traffic management can easily recognize and understand the specific functions associated with each facility.

Other methods of identification, such as geographical location or operational designation, do not provide the same level of specificity or immediate recognition that the named approach does. Although unique numerical codes play important roles in various aspects of air traffic management, they are not typically used for the immediate identification of control towers and approach controls in the same straightforward manner as the name followed by "Tower" or "Approach." Hence, the correct method of identification is through the naming convention.