What are "air tasking requests" (ATRs)?

Air Tasking Requests (ATRs) serve as formal mechanisms through which commanders and planning staff document and communicate requests for air support and the allocation of air assets. These requests are critical in the overall air operations planning process, as they outline specific missions, target priorities, required capabilities, and the timelines for execution. ATRs ensure that Air Operations Centers have a structured and standardized way to assess and respond to the needs of combat operations, thereby facilitating coordinated and effective use of air power in support of ground and naval forces.

The specificity and formal nature of ATRs distinguish them from informal suggestions or notifications of availability, which may not provide the detailed operational guidance necessary for mission success. Additionally, ATRs do not pertain to logistical performance reports of airliners, as their main focus lies in military operational requirements and strategic resource allocation within an air operation context.