The Federal Aviation Administration is reinstating its Flight Deck Training program for air traffic controllers.
Paused during the COVID pandemic, the program gives the growing number of ATC workers the chance to gain firsthand experience aboard commercial, general aviation and military aircraft.
The agency said it worked closely with the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) to reinstate the program, which allows controllers to apply for jumpseat access on eligible flights. This way, they can experience flight deck operations, including pilot workload, cockpit procedures and how ATC instructions impact flight crews at various points of the trip.
According to the FAA, "controllers will go through multiple steps of vetting at the airport and when they reach the airplane."
All major U.S. airlines have agreed to participate in the program, which is expected to launch formally after Thanksgiving.
"After listening to our frontline controllers, we're excited to bring back the Flight Deck Training program. Our controllers are the backbone of the National Airspace System and giving them opportunities to build their knowledge and gain firsthand experience makes them better at what they do," FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement.
"Communication is key and this program will give controllers and pilots an up-close view of each other’s responsibilities and challenges," added Bedford.
"NATCA is pleased to see this vital component of air traffic controller training reinstated," said National Air Traffic Controllers Association President Nick Daniels.
"There is no substitute for firsthand experience in the cockpit. The Flight Deck Training program gives participants a unique perspective on the challenges pilots face and how their decisions and actions interact with the air traffic control system, ultimately strengthening their understanding of the National Airspace System."
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