Ahmedabad to get to know its flight controllers

The air traffic controllers (ATC) at city’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (SVPI) is gearing up for World ATC Day on October 20. This year the controllers, who are popularly known as choreographers of aircraft, will be holding a seminar along with pilots and heads of different airlines on Thursday.

The discussions will include the history of ATC, Ahmedabad with pilots speaking on issues pertaining to flight operations. Officials of air force, Ahmedabad Aviation Academy, among others, will also be participating.

The ATCs are responsible for directing aircraft on the ground and in air to avoid collisions. ATC officials are going to spread awareness among passengers about the role and duties of ATCs.

“Passengers only know about pilots and crew members when they travel. There is hardly any awareness about the job of ATCs. The controllers’ job is highly sensitive as they have to assist the pilot in controlling the aircraft mid air,” said a top ATC official.
October 20 is celebrated worldwide as ATC Day. This year the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (IFATCA) is hosting a seminar in Jordan.