New directions for ATC training: A discussion

The air traffic control system is changing due to implementation of automation systems to avoid congestion and to increase safety, efficiency, and economy of flights. Consequently, the nature of an air traffic controller's job is also changing. Therefore, knowledge requirements of air traffic controllers should be revised. In this article, we discuss the need for revision. Then we propose revised knowledge requirements and compare them with United States and French practices. Based on findings of comparison, we propose that colleges should provide air traffic control specialist training despite the challenges due to the nature of the air traffic control job.