Primary airport control station

Primary Airport Control Station, or PACS, is a survey marker established in the vicinity of an airport and tied directly to the National Spatial Reference System. This control consists of permanent marks with precisely determined latitudes, longitudes and elevations. PACS and SACS (Secondary Airport Control Station) are designated by the National Geodetic Survey and must meet the specific siting, construction, and accuracy requirements. (also see airport security)

PACS coordinates are established by meeting a survey, data processing, adjustment and reporting standard known as the NGS Bluebook. (See Air safety for more info)