Small Aircraft; Low Wing; 2 Eng; Retractable Gear
Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Air Traffic Control Time Certified In Pos 1 (yrs) 7.5
Troubleshooting; Situational Awareness; Human-Machine Interface; Distraction
ATC Issue All Types
General None Reported / Taken
ATC Equipment / Nav Facility / Buildings
Aircraft X was a survey aircraft doing east/west runs over TPA. When the aircraft passed over TPA I noticed that the data block disappeared along with the radar target. This aircraft was in conflict with all TPA downwind traffic and the loss of the track was a major safety risk. When I brought it to the attention to the FLM on duty I was advised that this had happened several times before I took the position.Whatever caused this lapse in radar coverage needs to be addressed to maintain the safety of the NAS. Here at TPA we have been trying to get several STARS (Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System) issues resolved including ghost targets; frequent false starts on aircraft still on the ground and aircraft who have landed reacquiring. These issues increase controller workload and introduce risk into the NAS.
TPA TRACON Controller reported of losing a data block along with the primary target. The aircraft was in conflict with the downwind traffic. Reporter advised the FLM; who told him this had happened several times before he took the position. Controller would like this looked into to avoid it from happening again.