August 12, 2016 10.29 am
This story is over 96 months old
Gallery: Behind the scenes at RAF Coningsby Air Traffic Control
Ever wondered what challenges face the air traffic controllers leading high performance aircraft such as the Typhoon and Tornado in the heart of Lincolnshire? Controllers at RAF Coningsby have given a fascinating insight into their dynamic work station, where teams are tasked with safely coordinating a range of aircraft including the Battle of Britain Memorial…
Ever wondered what challenges face the air traffic controllers leading high performance aircraft such as the Typhoon and Tornado in the heart of Lincolnshire?
Controllers at RAF Coningsby have given a fascinating insight into their dynamic work station, where teams are tasked with safely coordinating a range of aircraft including the Battle of Britain Memorial flight.
Heavy traffic on the A1 in the Grantham area while the road is closed for recovery. Map: Apple
Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite
Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite
Air Traffic Control (ATC) at the RAF base is a challenging and dynamic environment that requires high levels of team work and the ability to process large amounts of information and use it effectively.
The team work in a unique and unusual environment in that SNCO controllers and Junior Officer controllers (and the Senior ATC Officer) do the exact same job when controlling aircraft and must be able to overlook rank to work effectively as a team.
At Coningsby ATC, Sgt / FS controllers act as the managers of the visual control room giving direction to Junior Officers and Flight Operations Assistants alike.
Teams must expeditiously and safely control high performance aircraft such as the Typhoon and Tornado, but also coordinate and work with other aircraft operating in the Lincolnshire area such as Tutors from RAFC Cranwell and American F15’s from RAF Lakenheath.
Controllers at Coningsby also have to help facilitate the work of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight that provides a unique challenge that cannot be found anywhere else in the RAF.
As well as supporting routine daily flying, controllers are required to support QRA(S) by having a minimum of two controllers manning the tower at high readiness 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Air traffic control officers are charged with keeping our skies safe. These trained leaders manage the teams that help our air crews complete missions smoothly.
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Exciting news for MyLocal app users and The Lincolnite readers! Our latest update is now available to download from your app store and comes packed with the best local news experience you can enjoy.
Revamped News Feed: Enjoy faster loading times and smoother scrolling that make catching up on local news a breeze.
New Play Video Feed: Dive into a dynamic video feed that brings local stories to life in a whole new way.
Enhanced In-App Browser: Access external links quickly and efficiently, right from the app, without any distractions.
Update your MyLocal app from your app store (version 2.73) now and start enjoying these great new features today!
P.S.: Start your MyLocal membership today to support MyLocal and The Lincolnite deliver you a better local news experience and honest journalism from across Lincolnshire.
P.P.S.: We have some huge things in the pipeline, stay tuned!