The FAA reports that Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (KAUS) in Texas is the first air traffic control tower in the nation to receive the new modernized Tower Simulation System, which is used for controller training on airport operations.
“Safety is our priority, and we are investing in new technologies that provide enhanced training for our air traffic controllers,” FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker said. “The new simulators will help us achieve that by providing real scenarios to train controllers throughout the National Airspace System.”
The system, which is now operational at KAUS, includes a visual database to simulate air traffic scenarios on an airport’s layout, operations, and airspace, enhancing safety, FAA officials explained.
Controllers at Austin handled more than 250,000 flights in 2023.
The FAA plans to install the new tower simulator systems in 95 facilities across the country by the end of 2025.
Modernizing the simulator system will also speed up the time it takes for controllers to become fully certified at air traffic facilities, agency officials said.
“This is one of the many actions the FAA is taking to increase the number of controllers and improve training,” FAA officials said, noting the actions follow the release of the National Airspace System Safety Review Team Report.
More actions include:
- Provide additional support to colleges and universities in the Air Traffic-Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) Program. The FAA will work with AT-CTI programs to ensure that graduates from these programs have the necessary skills to begin on-the-job training at an air traffic control facility. These graduates still must pass the Air Traffic Skills Assessment (ATSA) exam and meet medical and security requirements. Previously, these graduates were required to attend the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy prior to being assigned to a facility.
- Announced a year-round hiring track for experienced controllers from the military and private industry.
- Keep filling every seat at the FAA Academy and increase classroom capacity beyond current limits.
- Expand the use of advanced training across the country. The agency has new facilities in Chicago and San Diego, and will be adding them in Nashua and Phoenix in the spring of 2024.