Identifying achievable improvements in ATC Training

On 3 February, members of the CANSO Operational Training Task Force (OTTF) and other training service professionals met online to discuss barriers to increasing ATC training outputs. Training remains a key issue for ANSPs globally and the goal of the meeting was to identify actionable changes that can deliver improved training outcomes in the near and medium term. The discussions highlighted various challenges and potential solutions.

Expanding the capacity of training programmes

One of the primary topics was the challenge of scaling training programmes to accept and train more students. While initial classroom training stages can be expanded easily, later stages face constraints due to limited simulator availability and on-the-job training constraints in the Ops room.

Reducing barriers which extend training timelines

Several barriers prolong training timelines without adding training value, particularly during the on the job training phase.

Participants discussed measures that would allow students to demonstrate certain competencies in simulation, similarly to pilot training, could mitigate the issue of students waiting to experience certain situations in real life (e.g. infrequent runway configurations or snow events). It was acknowledged that the closer simulators match operational systems, the shorter the OJT phase because it makes for an easier transition for students.

Experience with progressive licensing both from the organisation and student perspective were discussed, including the benefits of , enabling students to gain partial qualifications earlier, build confidence leading to full qualification.

Improving training success rates

Individual mentoring and coaching were emphasised as initiatives which could significantly improve training success rates. The importance of quality instructors was also highlighted, with suggestions that CANSO develop a best practice guide for selection and training of instructors.

Looking ahead

The group will meet again in March to continue its conversations and to develop actionable plans to improve training outputs.  Stay tuned for more updates as the group works towards improving ATC training outcomes.

If you are interested in more information or to join the activities of the Operational Training Task Force contact strategy@canso.org