Air traffic controller, often known by the name IFR Controller, coordinate the safe and efficient movement of aircraft between airports. This means that they safely guide pilots at considerable distances. Area Controllers use monitoring displays, flight data processors and communication systems to ensure safe separation of aircraft. They work from one of the seven Area Control Centres (ACC) in Canada, each being responsible for air traffic in a large section of Canadian airspace called a Flight Information Region.
To talk about this exciting profession, we interviewed Étienne Tremblay, specialist IFR controller at the Montreal Terminal.
What are the prerequisites to apply for a job as Area Controller?
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent certificate
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be bilingual for the Montreal region and fluent in English for the other regions
- Meet Transport Canada’s medical requirements
- No experience in the aviation industry is necessary
How does the selection process then the training proceed?
After submitting the application, the candidate must carry out an online test. Then there is an in-person assessment and a series of telephone interviews. If the candidate is selected, he or she receives training online and then in one of the area control centres, in class and on a simulator. The apprentice then performs an internship in the work environment lasting from 6 to 18 months. At the end of this training, the license as Air Traffic Controller is issued by Transport Canada.
In your opinion, what are the main qualities that you must have for this profession?
- The ability to keep cool
The air traffic controller has human lives in his hands. He makes his decisions alone. He must therefor be able to keep cool at all times, in addition to being meticulous and respecting the regulations.
- Be respectful
We often have to deal with inexperienced pilots or with seasoned but exhausted crews. As we are in a position of authority, it is essential to always act respectfully to the clientele we serve and direct at the same time.
- Be persistent
The admission process and training is long and difficult. The theory training lasts at least nine months while the training on the floor takes six to 18 months. Only one candidate in two succeeds. In the event of failure, it is rare to have a second chance.
What are the main obstacles to be faced?
Training is itself a challenge, because you need success at every step of the process to be admitted. In addition, NAV Canada is a sole employer in Canada. If you are not admitted, you have to change your career.
In carrying out the work itself, my sworn enemy is idleness. A controller must always be vigilant. He cannot allow himself to be distracted.
What is that you love about your profession?
I love the aviation field as well as providing good customer service. When the work is done well, it is always gratifying to see that the customers are satisfied.
On the other hand, what aspect of your job do you like the least?
The schedules. They are indeed very changeable. It is difficult to maintain a regular pace of life and to practice a continuous activity. My shifts start between 5:45 am and 10:30 pm.
Do you have to take continuing education?
Air traffic control is constantly evolving. In eight years, my work has changed a lot. It is therefore necessary to do continuing training.
Every day, I have to read a series of documents that inform me about the day’s situation. For example, if fireworks are planned that evening, I am informed so that I can warn the pilots. It can also mean changes to routes, temporarily closed lanes, etc.
Then we receive web training on subjects that don’t affect our work directly. For example, the installation of new radars in the Far North.
Finally, some training targets specific specialities and focuses on new flight plan programs, new technologies to learn, etc. Periodically, we have to go to the simulator to familiarize ourselves with new air space configurations, new procedures or special situations such as major equipment failures. We have to be ready for everything.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to become an air traffic controller?
I would tell him to prepare well for the admission exam, because there will not be a second chance. He must be motivated to succeed. In addition, the training takes about one year, of which the first 6 months are unpaid. You must therefore be financially prepared. Finally, even though the minimum age to apply is 18, I would advise waiting to a more mature age before applying.
To learn more, visit: https://takecharge.navcanada.ca