Expert: Dacus T. Grant - 7/23/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi,
Would you please tell more about the shift of an air traffic controller.If he is using a surveillance screen, is there any precise time limitation during which he can be reliable in front of that screen.
And what are the conditions to be an ATC qualification tester?
Thanks a lot.

ANSWER: Hi Biniou,

Most air traffic controllers work rotating shifts.  A typical work week for me and my crew was Thurs 4-12pm,Fri 3-11pm, Sat 10-6pm, Sun 8-4pm and Mon 6-2pm or a mid 11-7am on Sunday night.

When we are working the position in front of a radar scope we try to limit the time on position to two hours or less.  

I don't know what you mean a ATC Qualification tester.  Air traffic controllers train other air traffic controllers and Supervisors certify controllers to work the positions.


I hope this helps.

Dacus Grant

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi!
thanks a lot for your answer.It was helpful to me. I mean the person who is responsible for the test which gives the ratings. Does he need a special requirement or he just have to be an instructor as here in our center.

Biniou

Answer
I trainee controller does not have a rating until he is certified  to work the position by a supervisor.  I guess the answer to your question would be his or her supervisor.  It is not called a test, it is a certification Check ride.  If he passes he is certified to work the position, if he fails he either gets more training or he gets reassigned or terminated.



Dacus Grant