Current Issues – Safety & Technology
NATCA members embrace new technology and are eager to use the most efficient and modern procedures available. First and foremost, NATCA’s top priority is safety. Therefore, the Union remains in constant communication with our members as to the functionality and reliability of the air traffic control equipment and procedures being implemented and utilized nationwide.
In order to maintain the safest aviation system in the world, NATCA’s Safety and Technology Department plays a large role in this abundance of important issues that we find facing the aviation industry today. Our involvement includes the following reports and updates:
Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS)
NATCA is working collaboratively with the FAA to safely integrate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) into the National Airspace System. Controllers in the United States already work UAS traffic every day. NATCA will continue its work to ensure the air traffic controllers remain in the discussion reference UAS operations.
Remote Tower Services
Over the past several years, the conversation on remote towers has been making its way across the Atlantic Ocean to the U.S. Several European countries have been testing this technology for years. NATCA is currently participating as a collaborative partner in the testing and development process for Remote Tower Services system technology at Leesburg Executive Airport in Northern Virginia.
Additional details on Remote Tower Services.
