What happens when ATC instructs a pilot to contact the tower during a visual approach?

When air traffic control (ATC) instructs a pilot to contact the tower during a visual approach, radar service is typically terminated. This is because the pilot is now transitioning their communication from the radar facility to the airport's control tower, indicating they are entering the final phases of their approach where visual contact with the runway is established. At this point, the tower takes over responsibility for the aircraft as it approaches for landing.

The change in communication signifies a shift in operational control; the tower is responsible for managing all landing and taxi operations at the airport. When the switch to the tower frequency occurs, radar service is no longer necessary for the landing phase, as the tower will provide instructions based on visual separation and the current traffic situation on the runway and surrounding airspace.

This transition is crucial in ensuring that the aircraft receives the most relevant and timely instructions as they prepare to land, allowing the tower controller to manage the traffic environment effectively without the overlap of radar guidance.