No access control without inspection; ATCO to enforce stricter officer training

Digital Desk

Under the new rules, trainee air traffic officers cannot enter the control tower without undergoing inspection. The six guidelines make training, trainers, and trainee assessments more stringent, ensuring higher standards and safer skies.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is introducing stricter and more transparent monitoring of Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs), who play a crucial role in ensuring aircraft safety by managing takeoffs, flight altitudes, and landings.

ATCO

ATCO ensures the safe and orderly flight of aeroplanes. They provide instructions to pilots for takeoff, landing, and air routes to prevent collisions or hazards.

ATCO is deployed in three sectors:

· Aerodrome Control (controlling flight and landing at the airport)

· Approach Control (controlling the airspace around the airport)

· Area Control (controlling the route of long-distance flights).

The six rules of ATCO are Setcall, Training institute, Record digitization, Charter flights, Special flights

DGCA has prepared six draft regulations aimed at improving the quality, transparency, and accountability of training institutions, trainers, and Air Traffic Officers.