What is the purpose of a control tower at an airport?

The primary purpose of a control tower at an airport is to manage the movement of aircraft on the ground and in the airspace. Control towers are essential for ensuring safety and efficiency in an airport's operations. Tower controllers coordinate takeoffs, landings, and ground traffic, helping to prevent collisions and maintain orderly flow in busy airspace. They relay important instructions to pilots regarding when to take off and land, as well as guiding them to taxiways and runways.

The management of aircraft maintenance, assistance at baggage claim, and flight training are all important functions at an airport, but they do not fall under the responsibilities of the control tower. Those tasks are typically handled by other departments or facilities within the airport, highlighting the specific and critical role that control towers play in aviation safety and operation management.