Accommodating ATC System Evolution through Advanced Training Techniques

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) expects air traffic volume and complexity to continue to increase, and with it the demand for air traffic control (ATC) services. The present controller training process and methods need to be enhanced to deal effectively with projected hiring increases, workforce changes, and operational changes anticipated in the future air transportation evolution. Advanced training techniques, such as scenario based instruction, voice recognition and synthesis and Intelligent Tutoring Systems (ITS) will reduce the time and costs required to attain Certified Professional Controller (CPC) status. Benefits such as increased flexibility in scheduling, more rapid response to facility staffing needs, and reduced stress on training resources such as instructors can be realized. The expected introduction of advanced ATC automation capabilities will affect the skills and knowledge mix of the controller workforce and may provide the opportunity for controller specialization that would result in increased efficiency while lowering overall costs. This paper summarizes the recent MITRE CAASD research into training methods, provides a high-level overview of the advanced ATC automation capabilities that could be introduced, presents recommendations for changes to the training process and its potential impact on training for both the current and future systems.