Flying IFR into new environments can be a serious challenge, particularly in busy airspace where controllers are talking nonstop, and it’s more important than ever to listen up and follow their instructions precisely. For flight in congested areas, pre-published, low-level IFR routes make both pre-flight planning and the actual flying much more straightforward and enjoyable. The system that provides these routes is called tower en route control (TEC).
The FAA defines TEC service as “the control of IFR en route traffic within delegated airspace between two or more adjacent approach control facilities.” The service was created to increase the efficiency of ATC services. TEC routes are generally more direct and have less stringent separation minimums. Availability is dependent on ATC workload, but I’ve never been denied a clearance in the airspace around Los Angeles, which is generally as congested as its local freeways.
