New Controllers Take Heed

As we’ve already discussed this week, I hated midnight shifts and I know how tough they are. I’m sympathetic -- up to a point. That sympathy ends when the stupidity begins.

Without commenting on the merits of this particular case, this is what it can look like when it hits the Press.

Germany Tightens Air Traffic Safety

”DFS's management immediately launched an investigation into the incident—and is not happy about what it discovered. The investigation found that there were four people in the tower at the time—three air traffic controllers and one flight data specialist. Regulations mandate that two flight controllers must be monitoring flights at all times—even in the middle of the night, when traffic is very thin. But the investigation found that there was only one controller at his desk at the time of the incident. “

Don’t think it can’t happen to you. It can. You’ve been given an awesome amount of responsibility and -- for the most part -- your pay and authority will match that responsibility in your career. Act accordingly. Don’t mess it up. All you have is the Public’s trust. Lose it and it will cost you -- and your profession -- dearly.

Don Brown
August 12, 2009