Air Traffic Control Display System v4.2.1
| CALLSIGN | TYPE | SQUAWK | ALT | HDG | SPD | ORIGIN | DEST | STATUS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UAL1234 | B738 | 4521 | FL350 | 270 | M.82 | KJFK | KLAX | TRACKED |
| DAL567 | A321 | 2234 | FL340 | 090 | M.78 | KORD | KJFK | TCAS TA |
| AAL789 | B77W | 7700 | FL280 | 180 | M.76 | EGLL | KJFK | EMERG |
| SWA2345 | B737 | 1567 | FL320 | 315 | M.79 | KDFW | KLAS | HANDOFF |
| N123AB | C172 | 1200 | 4500 | 045 | 120 | KTEB | KBED | VFR |
Every element must be instantly readable under high-stress conditions. Use high-contrast phosphor colors against dark backgrounds. Avoid ambiguity in status indicators and data displays.
Pack maximum data into minimum space without sacrificing legibility. Use tight letter-spacing, monospace fonts, and compact layouts. Every pixel of screen real estate is valuable.
Establish clear visual priority through color and animation. Green for normal, amber for caution, red for emergency. Blinking indicators demand immediate attention while steady states fade into background awareness.
Text-shadow and box-shadow create the characteristic CRT phosphor glow. This isn't decoration but enhances legibility in dark environments and creates the authentic radar display aesthetic.
Circular radar displays, concentric rings, and vector trajectory lines. Use geometric shapes to convey spatial relationships. Angles and distances must be visually accurate and proportional.
The interface must inspire trust through its precision and reliability. Consistent behavior, predictable animations, and clear feedback. Lives depend on operator confidence in the system.