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NATCA National Air Traffic Controllers Association - We Guide You Home NATCA FACEBOOK PAGE POLICY (adopted by the NEB Nov. 2022)

1. Understand and follow all rules.

The NATCA Facebook (FB) page was created to encourage open discussion about issues important to NATCA and its members. We require that you read and agree to abide by the rules here.

2. No offensive content/language tolerated. Users should not post material which is a violation of the NATCA National Constitution and/or the NATCA Code of Conduct, which prohibits discriminatory, offensive, obscene,

libelous, threatening, harassing, or intimidating messages.

3. Not a reporting forum for inappropriate behavior. This is not a forum to report inappropriate behavior, Code of Conduct violations, or harassment or mistreatment. To report such incidents, please contact the NATCA Chief of Staff, the NATCA General Counsel, or your NATCA Regional Vice President.

4. No sharing of private information and copyrighted materials. Sharing of sensitive personally identifiable information is not allowed in this group, nor is content infringing on a person’s or entity’s copyrights, including but not limited to other web sites, media, etc. NATCA will not indemnify or hold harmless any user for copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property infringement.

5. No promotions or spams. Self-promotion, multi-level marketing posts. spam, coupons, promo codes, and other irrelevant content is not allowed.

6. Use of content disclaimer. When content is shared or uploaded to our channels, you agree to grant NATCA a non-exclusive license to host, use, distribute, modify, run, copy, and publicly perform or display the content in conjunction with NATCA business.

7. Removal from the group. Failure to adhere to those rules may result in being blocked from posting and commenting on our channels.

01/25/2025

The NATCA Onboarding Committee welcomes and thanks all new NATCA leaders who have recently taken office for their terms as FacReps at their local facilities:

Alaskan Region:
Dustin Jones (Flight Service Station 3, FS3)
Bradley Lutz (Fairbanks ATCT, FAI)

Central Region:
Benjamin Pidgeon (Jefferson City FCT, JEF)
Sterling Knight (Waterloo ATCT, ALO)
Trevor Redlin (Cedar Rapids ATCT, CID)
Daniel Foreman (Spirit ATCT, SUS)
Patrick James (Kansas City Center, ZKC)

Eastern Region:
Jacob Haven (Elmira TRACAB, ELM)
Raymond Dahlstrom (La Guardia ATCT, LGA)
Matthew James (Atlantic City ATCT, ACY)
Andrea Carr (Martin State FCT, MTN)
Hunter Maggard (Syracuse ATCT, SYR)
Cory Davids (New York Center, ZNY)

Great Lakes Region:
Peyton Monts (Flint ATCT, FNT)
Brandon Keiser (Lafayette ATCT, LAF)
Nicholas Luce (Chicago O’Hare ATCT, ORD)
Bianca Sizemore (South Bend ATCT, SBN)

New England Region:
Hananiah Wiseman (Boston TRACON, A90)
Craig Winans (Yankee TRACON, Y90)

Northwest Mountain Region:
Peter Costanza (Pueblo ATCT, PUB)

Southern Region:
Nicole Argieard (St. Croix FCT, STX)
Walter Jespersen (Tuscaloosa FCT, TCL)
Joseph Gambino (New Smyrna Beach FCT, EVB)
Manuel Jimenez (Lexington ATCT, LEX)
Ramon De Jesus (Aguadilla FCT, BQN)
Brian Lee (Charleston ATCT, CHS)
James Schulte (Florence ATCT, FLO)
Leonard Karpen (St. Lucie ATCT, FPR)

Southwest Region:
Matthew Colan (Longview ATCT, GGG)
Brian Maldonado (Denton FCT, DTO)
Jose Maldonado (Lea County Hobbs FCT, HOB)

Western Pacific Region:
Christopher Tuminaro (Grand Canyon ATCT, GCN)
Brian Ingram (Joshua TRACON, JCF)
Ariel Ortega (Prescott ATCT, PRC)

01/24/2025

After more than a decade of determined advocacy, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) NATCA members celebrated a landmark victory on Dec. 9, 2024, as the Charlotte City Council voted 8-2 to approve the findings of the Part 150 Noise Compatibility Study. This decision paves the way for implementing diverging headings—a critical safety enhancement for air traffic operations at CLT.

"This is one of the most significant operational advancements in over 40 years at CLT," said Charlotte Tower (CLT) FacRep Anthony Schifano. "It’s not about technology; it’s about making the airspace safer and more efficient for everyone. This is a win for safety, for our members, and for the public."

The new procedures will allow aircraft to maneuver with greater separation, reducing risks associated with current departure paths where aircraft follow the same routes off the runway. NATCA's engagement was driven by the safety-first mindset of its members, who understand the critical need for these changes.

CLT NATCA members turned out in force for the city council vote, sporting their signature yellow shirts and carrying signs to advocate for the recommendations. Among them were controllers from the tower, TRACON, and traffic management, as well as members still in training. Their unity and dedication were instrumental in securing this victory.

"Seeing so many of our members show up—especially during a last-minute vote—reinforced the strength of our solidarity," Schifano added. "It was a proud moment for our local, and it shows how collective action can truly make a difference."

The approval of the Part 150 Study represents not only a safety milestone but also a testament to the power of union solidarity and member engagement. CLT NATCA’s efforts will benefit the airport, the aviation community, and the broader Charlotte region for years to come.

01/23/2025

Be Part of the Action at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2025!

Every year, NATCA is proud to take center stage at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration. From July 21-27, 2025, this extraordinary event will bring together over 10,000 aircraft, nearly 700,000 attendees, and a wealth of forums, workshops, and exhibits celebrating aviation. NATCA’s volunteers are the heartbeat of this experience, and now is your chance to join them!

As a volunteer, you’ll represent NATCA at the vibrant NATCA booth, deliver empowering sessions for pilots, inspire the next generation at KidVenture, and support the NATCA team representing our Union and profession in the world’s busiest airspace. Volunteer opportunities are available from July 16-30, and your efforts will make a lasting impact on aviation enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Apply to be a volunteer now and secure your spot in this unforgettable celebration of aviation. Applications are open, and volunteers will be notified of their selection in early 2025. Don’t miss the chance to play a role in one of the most thrilling and meaningful events in the aviation world!

https://www.natca.org/oshkosh-volunteer-application/

01/22/2025

Limited edition merchandise for the NATCA Convention taking place in San Francisco May 9-11, 2025 is available to pre-order. Last day to order is February 1, 2025, for guaranteed pickup at NATCA Convention. The collection features shirts, sweatshirts, a commemorative ornament, and more. http://store.natca.org

01/21/2025

The next NATCA in Washington will be held March 24-26, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency in Washington, D.C. If you would like to attend this year’s event, please indicate your interest by completing the following questionnaire below no later than Feb. 6, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. PST.

Members of the National Legislative Committee (NLC) will confirm interested members’ attendance on or before Feb. 17, 2025. Please note that your attendance is not guaranteed until it is confirmed by your regional NLC rep.

Please do not make any flight arrangements until you receive a confirmation from your Regional NLC member on attendance. Additionally, transportation expenses are NOT reimbursed by NATCA National. Please check with your FacRep before you complete any airfare purchase to determine what expense reimbursements, if any, will be provided by your local.

Register here: https://www.natca.org/natca-in-washington-registration/

Learn more about the event here: https://www.natca.org/events/niw/

01/20/2025

NOTE: NATCA distributed this message as a press release today.

NATCA President Nick Daniels issued the following statement on the Presidential Inauguration:

“We congratulate President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance on their swearing into office today.

“America’s National Airspace System (NAS) is the safest and most complex in the world. The approximately 10,800 fully certified air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals that the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) represents are essential to maintaining the highest levels of safety and the future of aviation.

“The NAS is a cornerstone of our nation’s economy, and it is vital that our nation supports and protects it. The NAS supports nearly 11 million jobs and generates $1.8 trillion in economic activity. Each day, we facilitate the safe movement of 45,000 flights, over 2 million passengers, and over 60,000 tons of cargo, contributing more than five percent to the U.S. Gross Domestic Product.

“NATCA looks forward to working with the new Administration to continue advancing the priorities laid out in the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2024, including maximum hiring of air traffic controllers, implementing more efficient controller training, and continuing NATCA and FAA collaboration on important safety and efficiency programs. We also look forward to continuing to work with the new Administration to advance the repair or replacement of FAA owned air traffic control facilities and installing state-of-the-art equipment, ensuring that the United States remains the gold standard for the world and is prepared to integrate the future of aviation travel. These efforts will be essential to improving the NAS and supporting the workforce that safeguards it while also providing air travelers the safety and professionalism they deserve.”

01/20/2025

Today we commemorate the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a visionary leader and tireless advocate for social justice, equality, and the power of collective action. His role as a central figure in the American civil rights movement from the 1950s until his untimely death in 1968 remains a beacon of inspiration and courage.

Dr. King understood how the success of the civil rights and labor movements were intertwined. His support for the Memphis sanitation workers' strike in his final days is a testament to his commitment to the labor cause. Learn more about Dr. King's involvement with AFSCME and his broader labor advocacy here. https://www.afscme.org/about/history/mlk His legacy inspires us to keep striving for a fairer, more just society.

As proud NATCA members, we recognize the critical role unions play in ensuring fair compensation, benefits, and working conditions. We take pride in our members who tirelessly work to support our Union, enhance our professions, and safeguard the National Airspace System.

In honoring Dr. King's memory, let us embrace his teachings on the power of unity and collective effort. His profound words remind us of our interconnectedness: “Life's most persistent and urgent question is, 'What are you doing for others?'”

As we reflect on Dr. King's life and message, let's commit to uplifting each other, advocating for our community, and contributing positively to the world.

01/19/2025

NATCA Benefits is proud to partner with Union Plus to offer savings and helpful programs to our members. Each year, Union Plus offers a scholarship to help Union members and their families with the cost of college. They've provided over $5.6 million in scholarship funds to date. The deadline to apply for the 2025 scholarship is Jan. 31, 2025. For more information on eligibility requirements and to apply, visit the Union Plus website. https://www.unionplus.org/benefits/education/union-plus-scholarships

01/18/2025

We’re proud to share the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Association’s (IFATCA) latest video highlighting the incredible work of its Technical Operations Committee (TOC) and Professional & Legal Committee (PLC).

Washington Center (ZDC) member Jaymi Steinberg serves as chair of the TOC, addressing critical technical and operational issues on behalf of air traffic controllers worldwide. Betsy Beaumont (Dallas-Fort Worth Center, ZFW) also serves on the TOC. Michelle Trudeau (Indianapolis Center, ZID, retired) is a key member of the PLC, working tirelessly on professional and legal matters.

These committees make a global impact, and we’re proud to see NATCA members leading the way. Watch the video to learn more:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=503011362172071

01/17/2025

Are you looking for something fun to do with your kids over the winter break? Join an art contest and create something showcasing "Women with Wings." The FAA invites children ages 3-5 to join the FAA Aviation and Aerospace Art Contest, with submissions due Jan. 24, 2025. All rules, dates, and instructions can be found here. This initiative is in collaboration with NATCA's National Child Care Representative Christina Munro-Wilcko.

https://mailchi.mp/ab66fc36b418/2025-aviation-aerospace-art-contest?e=f27458b77b

01/17/2025

Limited edition merchandise for the NATCA Convention taking place in San Francisco May 9-11, 2025 is available to pre-order. Pre-order deadline: February 1, 2025, for guaranteed pickup at NATCA Convention. The collection features shirts, sweatshirts, a commemorative ornament, and more. http://store.natca.org

01/16/2025

This month, the 2025 NATCA wall calendar features a photo of El Monte ATCT (EMT) taken by local FacRep Chad Smith. Located at the San Gabriel Valley Airport, El Monte ATCT has 13 NATCA members.

The airport was originally constructed in 1936 and features a single runway. It is a hub for general aviation enthusiasts. According to Los Angeles County’s Department of Public Works, El Monte ATCT sees over 97,000 general aviation takeoffs and landings each year!

01/15/2025

During ATCA Connect 2024, Boston Center (ZBW) members Scott Elms and Rosilla Owen were honored with the Andy Pitas Aircraft Save Award.
Elms and Owen assisted a Cessna 310 pilot who was suffering from hypoxia during an aerial photography mission. Owen was able to talk the pilot through a descent from 13,500 feet to 9,000 feet, which remedied his condition. After the pilot recovered, he told the controllers that although he had been wearing an oxygen mask, there was a kink in the line, so oxygen was not flowing properly, and thanked them for their vigilance and assistance.
Owen and Elms were unable to attend ATCA Connect, so NATCA President Nick Daniels accepted the award on behalf of Rosilla Owen and Scott Elms. In December, NATCA New England RVP Kevin Curtiss had the honor of presenting them with their award.
Read more about their story on Medium: https://medium.com/faa/save-story-boston-controllers-assist-pilot-suffering-from-hypoxia-39ebf6ab0705

https://www.natca.org/2025/01/14/boston-center-zbw-controllers-honored-with-atcas-andy-pitas-aircraft-save-award/

01/15/2025

Today, NATCA President Nick Daniels and FAA Administrator Michael Whittaker signed the successor agreement to the Multi-Unit and Consolidated Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs) (the “Light Blue” and the “Purple” books). This integrated CBA will be referred to as the "Indigo Book.” The Indigo Book was the product of limited negotiations that began in May of 2024 and concluded on Dec. 17, 2024, when the tentative agreement was ratified by the affected membership with 96.5% of the ballots being in favor of ratification. With today’s signatures, this voluntary agreement becomes effective immediately.

NATCA’s negotiating team consisted of Chief Negotiator Andrew LeBovidge (former NATCA Executive Vice President), NATCA Region X RVP Mark Rausch, NATCA Director of Labor Relations Nicole Vitale, Corey Glaze (NATCA ENM), Jordan Klein (NATCA N90), Lisen Minetti (NATCA EAC), and Ed Szczuka (NATCA ECE). “NATCA’s team was exceptionally dedicated, meticulous, and truly focused on securing the best possible Agreement for the membership,” said LeBovidge. “They poured their hearts and souls into the process, deftly working through complex issues during very trying circumstances.”

RVP Rausch echoed this sentiment. “These Leaders sacrificed personal time, overtime, time with family and loved ones for the greater good of our union, and we are grateful and appreciative of a job well done.” Rausch continued, “This new Agreement secured many positive gains for our membership, and we are grateful for the membership’s overwhelming support.”

President Daniels summed up the process succinctly. “Our Union constantly strives to ensure that our membership has the benefits, and the protections, of a solid voluntary agreement. This is certainly the case with this new Integrated Agreement and has never been as important as it is today. Our thanks to all who helped bring this to closure, and I’m excited to see what we can accomplish in the future.”

The parties are finalizing the Integrated Agreement for publication. It is available online here: https://www.natca.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/CBA-Integrated-w-Appendices-FINAL-DRAFT-.pdf.

Pictured, left to right: NATCA Dir. of Labor Relations Nicole Vitale, former NATCA EVP Andrew LeBovidge, NATCA President Nick Daniels, FAA Administrator Michael Whitaker, AHL-300 Chief Negotiator Vanessa Marzán-Hernández, FAA Executive Director of Labor and Employee Relations Kevin Androsian, FAA Legal Advisor José Ortiz

01/12/2025

It is with profound sadness and deep respect that we remember Joe Bellino, former Executive Vice President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), whose life and legacy continue to inspire the aviation community and all those who knew him. Joe, who passed away on Thursday, January 9, was a steadfast leader, a tenacious negotiator, and a dedicated advocate for the safety and well-being of air traffic controllers.

Joe’s career was defined by his unwavering commitment to the profession he loved and the people he served. Joe, who began his career as an air traffic controller in 1968, was the first developmental at O’Hare Tower/TRACON to join the recently formed Professional Air Traffic Controllers Organization (PATCO). He was also a charter member of NATCA’s first National Executive Board after being elected Great Lakes Regional Vice President (RVP) in the 1988 election, a position he had held since 1986. In 1991, Joe was elected Executive Vice President of the Union and served in that role until 1994.

His leadership was marked by his tireless dedication to improving the working conditions, safety standards, and professional recognition of air traffic controllers across the nation. He was instrumental in shaping policy, negotiating contracts, and defending the rights of the workforce he cared for so deeply.

As we mourn the loss of Joe Bellino, we also celebrate his remarkable contributions to the air traffic control profession and to the lives he touched. His work, his values, and his spirit live on in the many lives he impacted, and in the ongoing mission of NATCA to advocate for the safety, rights, and dignity of air traffic controllers.

01/11/2025

As the devastating impact of the Los Angeles-area wildfires continues to be felt across Southern California, NATCA's Disaster Response Committee (DRC) has been working tirelessly to support affected members. The committee is reaching out to members in the hardest-hit areas, including Burbank ATCT (BUR), El Monte ATCT (EMT), Los Angeles ATCT (LAX), Los Angeles Center (ZLA), Santa Monica ATCT (SMO), Van Nuys ATCT (VNY), Engineers Western Pacific (EWP), and Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office (EW1).

As of Friday morning, no NATCA-represented facilities are in mandatory evacuation zones or under an evacuation warning. However, more than a few members have been forced to evacuate their homes. We expect that some of them have lost, or will lose, their homes and all of their belongings, but we will not know until those affected are able to return to the area.

While we help them navigate this incredibly sad time, we are offering them immediate assistance including putting them up in hotels and when they are ready for it, our assistance in the insurance process. The path ahead for anyone losing their home is long and arduous.

We know many of our members are also continuing to work long hours in order to aid in aerial firefighting efforts. Although your work is not the most visible, the impacts of it do not go unnoticed.

NATCA would also like to remind members to take precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones from the health risks of smoke and low air quality. Please see this guide from the California Air Resources Board for more tips. And, if you are concerned about health and safety at your facility, please contact the OSHA Committee for assistance.

The DRC is also monitoring the ice storm in the Southeast. Typically ice storms bring long periods of power loss, so the DRC has strategically staged generators in Charlotte ATCT (CLT), Atlanta ATCT (ATL), Huntsville ATCT (HSV), and other areas in the storm path in preparation for potential upcoming power outages.

NATCA’s Disaster Relief Fund is a critical resource for our members. Donations are being accepted in the following ways:

PayPal your donation to [email protected] at https://www.paypal.com/us/digital-wallet/send-receive-money/send-money.

Sign up for automatic payroll deduction at https://secure.rightsignature.com/signers/d5a20a01-0423-42dd-b753-c7a7245640f6/sign?access_token=y_bqJXddy1a_e4ru3cRg.

Mail personal checks, payable to “Disaster Relief Fund” to NATCA Attn: Accounting Department 1325 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington, D.C., 20005

Donate through GoFundMe at https://www.gofundme.com/f/5ghqbe-natca-disaster-relief-fund.

The DRC also encourages members to check in with them, especially those in affected areas. If you need help or have questions, please call us at 1-833-NATCA-DRC or email [email protected]. Visit the DRC’s web page at https://www.natca.org/committees/drc/.

01/10/2025

Registration for NATCA’s 20th Biennial Convention is now open. Register today and plan to be at the Marriott Marquis in San Francisco from May 9-11, 2025, with the opening ceremony taking place on the evening of May 8. Early registrants will get the best prices on all Convention events.

Please do not register NATCA members as guests. NATCA members must be registered as separate attendees to receive the proper credentialing.

Click here to register for the Convention and buy tickets for evening events. Purchase tickets before March 10, 2025, for lowest event ticket pricing! https://cvent.me/DgGAXb

Room reservations can be made directly during the Convention registration process. The cutoff date and time to book your room is April 14, 2025, at 5 p.m. PDT or when our Union’s room block is sold out.

For additional information and updates, visit the Convention webpage. https://www.natca.org/events/convention/

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Preparations are underway for NATCA’s 20th Biennial Convention to be held at the Marriott Marquis in San Francisco on May 9-11, 2025. The deadline for submitting proposed amendments for the upcoming Convention is quickly approaching! All proposed amendments must be submitted to NATCA’s Executive Vice President at [email protected] by 11:59 p.m. EST on Thursday, January 9, 2025. For our members who haven’t submitted an amendment or resolution before and aren’t sure where to start, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help clarify the process. Find the full FAQ on our website: https://www.natca.org/2024/12/27/faqs-on-submitting-proposed-amendments-and-resolutions-for-convention/

The 40th Annual IFATCA Americas Regional Meeting in Trinidad set a new attendance record, bringing together 18 Member Associations and key leaders in air traffic management. NATCA representatives led essential discussions on mental health, disaster preparedness, and technical advancements. Highlights included peer support initiatives, disaster readiness strategies, and a Volunteer of the Year award for NATCA’s Jaymi Steinberg (Washington Center, ZDC), Chair of IFATCA’s Technical and Operations Committee (TOC). IFATCA Executive Vice President Americas Trish Gilbert called the event “an incredible opportunity for collaboration.” Read the full story here. https://www.natca.org/2024/11/14/record-attendance-key-discussions-and-natca-leadership-shape-40th-ifatca-americas-regional-meeting/

The CFS 2024 Exhibit Hall is a vibrant showcase of the latest technologies and modernization efforts shaping the aviation industry. From cutting-edge tools enhancing safety in the National Airspace System (NAS) to ongoing modernization projects that promise to redefine air traffic management, the exhibit hall is a must-visit for all attendees. NATCA encourages #NATCACFS attendees take full advantage of this opportunity by engaging with NATCA Representatives, FAA Program Managers, and industry representatives. These interactions offer valuable insights into the technological advancements and industry trends that are set to influence the future of aviation. Whether you’re interested in new safety systems, automation tools, or sustainability initiatives, the Exhibit Hall is the place to explore what lies ahead in the field. Be sure to check out the list of sponsors and exhibitors on our website to gain a deeper understanding of the innovations driving our profession forward.

The Communicating For Safety (CFS) conference is celebrating a monumental milestone this year: This is the 25th anniversary of NATCA organizing the conference. Since 1999, CFS has grown from a small gathering into the premier aviation safety conference globally, becoming a cornerstone of the industry and a beacon for collaboration, innovation, and safety. This year’s event promises to be more influential than ever, bringing together over 1,300 attendees, including NATCA members, FAA leadership, pilots, and industry stakeholders. The goal of CFS has always been to foster an open exchange of ideas and information, focusing on aviation safety. As we celebrate this landmark year, NATCA remains committed to making CFS the definitive forum for discussing the challenges and advancements that will shape the future of the National Airspace System (NAS). Throughout its history, CFS has facilitated collaborations on the most critical safety issues. It has been instrumental in preparing the workforce for the integration of new technologies and procedures, ensuring that the NAS remains the safest and most efficient in the world. This year’s conference will continue that tradition, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation safety. NATCA is excited to welcome all participants to this historic event and is confident that the insights gained here will continue to propel the industry forward. Learn more about this year’s event in the #NATCACFS 2024 program book:https://www.natca.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CFS-Book-2024_final-3.pdf

Today at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, NATCA members Rachel Gilmore (Indianapolis Center, ZID) and Corey Soignet (Houston Intercontinental ATCT, IAH) joined EAA Radio to talk about how to become an air traffic controller. They shared what it’s like to go through the hiring and training process, discussing both off-the-street and prior experience hiring and highlighting the opportunities in the profession. #OSH24

Todays class at EAA AirVenture “ATC & You: Lessons From the Real World,” hosted at the NATCA booth and led by Jesse Strickland (Houston Center, ZHU) and Rachel Gilmore (Indianapolis Center, ZID), featured controllers discussing real aviation scenarios pulled from our own controllers’ Archie League Medal of Safety saves. Attendees shared insights and had their questions answered by experienced controllers. #OSH24

Today’s packed interactive class at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, “ATC & You: Lessons From the Real World,” hosted at the NATCA booth and led by Karoline Gorman (New York Center, ZNY) and Jesse Strickland (Houston Center, ZHU), saw controllers reviewing real-life scenarios pulled from our very own Archie League Medal of Safety award winners and answering participant questions. #OSH24

Today’s class at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh was a must for all pilots. At the NATCA booth, NATCA members Joseph Koziuk (Daytona Beach ATCT, DAB) and Paul Konosky (DeKalb-Peachtree ATCT, PDK) presented “ATC & You: How to Make the Most of Flying VFR.” VFR (Visual Flight Rules) allows pilots to fly their aircraft with visual reference to the ground and the sky. This session highlighted why pilots should communicate with ATC, utilize flight following, and embrace controlled airspace. Participants learned about common misconceptions, clarified phraseology, and how to operate more efficiently within the system. Pilots of all experience levels gained valuable insights to enhance their flying experience. #OSH24

Today’s class at @EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, “ATC & You: SIDS/STARS,” hosted at the NATCA booth and led by Greg “Tacklebox” Craven (Washington Center, ZDC) and Marcus Miller (Houston Center, ZHU), explained the vital roles of SIDS and STARS in aviation. SIDS (Standard Instrument Departures) streamline the post-departure transition, while STARS (Standard Terminal Arrival Routes) assist with transitioning flights from the enroute environment to the terminal environment. This was a new class this year meant to draw both seasoned and novice pilots to NATCA’s booth for discussion. The session covered all elements of the procedures welcoming all questions and insights. #OSH24

This afternoon’s NATCA booth EAA AirVenture Oshkosh’s class, “ATC & You: Lessons From the Real World,” led by Jesse Strickland (Houston Center, ZHU) and Sean Smith (Albuquerque Center, ZAB), offered practical lessons with real-world scenarios centered around our very own Archie League Medal of Safety saves. Participants engaged with controllers, gaining valuable insights. #OSH24

At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, the “pink shirts” are the backbone of the event. These 65 controllers, including both a mix of Oshkosh veteran controllers and experienced certified professional controllers new to the event, work together to manage the immense air traffic of the largest airshow on the planet. With teams rotating through the control tower, Fond du Lac, and ground positions, their coordination is key. #OSH24

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