Learn Portuguese (Portugal): O controlador já verifica o radar. - The controller will check the radar right away.

While já usually means "already" in past contexts, using it with a verb in the present tense creates a pragmatic future. It assures the listener that the action is guaranteed to happen in the immediate future, which translates perfectly to "right away" or "in a second".

Why is the present tense verifica used instead of a future tense?

In European Portuguese, the present tense is frequently used to talk about a near or certain future. When paired with já, the present tense naturally takes on this immediate future meaning. Using the formal future tense here (verificará) would sound unnatural and overly formal for an immediate action.

Can we put já at the end of the sentence, like O controlador verifica o radar já?

Yes, but it changes the tone. Placing já at the end of the sentence adds strong emphasis and urgency, often making it sound like a stressed, immediate demand ("right this exact second"). Placed before the verb, as in this sentence, it acts as a polite, prompt assurance.

In this context, is the controlador a person or a piece of equipment?

It refers to a person, most likely an air traffic controller (controlador de tráfego aéreo). If the sentence were referring to a mechanical controller or a remote control, Portuguese would typically use words like comando or painel de controlo.