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Dear IFATCA Family,
As we step into 2025, we do so with renewed energy and purpose, embracing the halfway point of IFATCA´s business year with a clear focus on delivering excellence. The Executive Board is getting ready for our upcoming in-person board meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, where we have generously been invited by our South African Member Association GATCSA at the end of February. The meeting will focus on preparing for the Annual Conference 2025 in Abu Dhabi. This years’ theme is Recruitment and Training: Our Flight Plan for the Future. The theme underscores the critical importance of preparing for tomorrow by investing in people today. Recruitment and training are not merely functions; they are foundational pillars that shape the strength, agility, and resilience of our industry as a whole. At Conference we look forward to seeing as many of our Member Associations as possible.
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Conference is the major IFATCA event of the year where we have a unique opportunity to engage on the critical work of our Standing Committees (FIC, CAC, TOC and PLC),Task Forces, and other working groups. At the heart of our shared success are the remarkable contributions of our volunteers at every level. Your dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire us, enabling the federation to meet the demands of our ever-evolving industry. You are the heartbeat of the federation, driving IFATCA´s mission forward and ensuring that we remain a beacon of excellence. The Conference in Abu Dhabi will provide a platform to explore strategies, share innovative practices, and forge connections that will define our path forward. It is an opportunity to align our efforts, ensuring that we cultivate the skills necessary to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world. Last year in Singapore, we had a record participation (live and by proxy) of 107 Member Associations in good standing! Can we break that record!?
If you have not yet registered, please hurry up and do so. All information is available on https://www.ifatca2025.com/
Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities in the months ahead with the same spirit that brought us this far. I look forward to seeing you in May as we chart our flight plan for the future together and reaffirm our commitment to building a brighter, stronger, and more sustainable IFATCA.
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| Helena Sjöström Falk
President and CEO |
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Regional News & Activities
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IFATCA attends NATCA’s Activism and Training eXposition (ATX)
On December 9 – 12, 2024, Jaymi Steinberg – Chair of the Technical & Operational Committee and member of the 2030+ Task Force, Michelle Trudeau – Professional & Legal Committee Member, Tom Thompson – Chair of the Americas Region Communications Committee and EVP AMS delivered presentations at NATCA’s Activism & Training Expo (ATX) in Las Vegas, NV.
The presentations highlighted the structure, objectives, and global impact of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA). The group emphasized NATCA’s role in fostering international collaboration, advancing air traffic control standards, and promoting the exchange of best practices to enhance safety and efficiency worldwide.
Key topics included IFATCA’s engagement with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the work of its Technical & Operational and Professional & Legal Committees, the importance of regional meetings and the annual conference, disaster preparedness initiatives, strategic communication efforts, and the “Speak English” program.
Over the course of the four-day event, the session was held seven times, attracting excellent participation from attendees. Many members asked insightful questions and expressed a strong interest in becoming more involved in IFATCA’s initiatives.
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Dominican Republic Team with assistance from the U.S. lead Sarah Grampp offer support!
A heartfelt thank you to the Americas Region Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team, with special recognition to our colleagues from the Dominican Republic, for providing invaluable support to our ATEPSA family in the aftermath of the tragic crash in San Fernando, Argentina. Your dedication and compassion exemplify the strength and solidarity of our community during such difficult times. South America RVP Mario Libran ensured coordination was timely and consistent.
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Trish Gilbert
IFATCA EVP Americas
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Our Portuguese Member Association (APCTA) hosted and invited IFATCA to participate in a Fatigue Workshop in Lisboa, Portugal on 22/11/2024. The IFATCA delegation included Marc Baumgartner (EASA/SESAR Coordinator) and Frédéric Deleau (EVP EUR).
EVPEUR was offered the opportunity to moderate the first panel. Marc Baumgartner presented the aging ATCO and digitalisation. Some conclusions drawn out of various studies show that age has an impact on performance, that cognitive workload has to be managed with new technology (ex. multiple remote tower) – One needs to be careful of the Technological Hype and that future system will be joint (with humans) or it will not be. New skills will be needed. EVPEUR presented some IFATCA policies related to fatigue and the support to MAs.
This event was well attended from ATCOs, researchers, management and military representatives.
IFATCA wishes to congratulate APCTA (and SINCTA) friends and colleagues for a very well organized and educational workshop that delivered very valuable information together with high-quality material and discussions. Obrigado a todos!
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| While on a private family visit, EVP EUR Frederic Deleau had the honour and privilege to be invited to the Christmas party of CYATCA, our Cypriot Member Association.
During the event attended by the Transport Minister of Cyprus, Mr Alexis Vafeades, Fred had the opportunity to discuss the potential benefits of moving the Cypriot ANSP into a corporate entity. Such a project that Fred participated in to negotiate years ago was put on hold for years, due to the Covid situation. While the law has passed and everyone is highly motivated to move into a win-win package, the situation has not evolved.
However, the aim of the evening was more. To share nice moments with old and new friends and to enjoy a privileged party together. During the event, Nicholas Lyracides, supervisor at Nicosia ACC, Cyprus representative to the EU and former IFATCA EVPEUR, made an emotional speech for his retirement as controller. It was a real privilege to be present at such occasion and to watch the little clip developed by his colleagues to celebrate and honour the full and successful career of a good friend. |
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| Congratulations to all our friends and colleagues for the safe handling of so many flights in a challenging environment. It’s an amazing achievement considering some circumstances and the huge human engagement it takes to ensure such a high level of service. Let’s hope that while the traffic continues to grow, the new OPS room will be ready and functional soon, so Cyprus will get the necessary new tools needed. |
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| Best Wishes:
As we enter a new year, let us wish you and your loved ones our best wishes. We hope for a more peaceful, healthier, stable, and enjoyable period, always focusing on our professional and human objectives.
On behalf of the EVPEUR and the EUR Support Team.
Frédéric Deleau
IFATCA EVP Europe
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The Africa and Middle East (AFM) Region ended 2024 on a somber note following an airstrike on the control tower at Sa’naa Airport in Yemen, which left two air traffic controllers injured. In response, IFATCA and its members stood in solidarity with their Yemeni colleagues. The Executive Board issued a press statement urging all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international legal obligations and protect civilian infrastructure and personnel including Air Traffic Controllers in Yemen.
Despite these challenges, the AFM Region has embraced 2025 with hope and enthusiasm. In a heartfelt New Year message, the Executive Vice President commended Air Traffic Controllers across the region for their resilience, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to ensuring aviation safety and efficiency. He also highlighted ongoing regional challenges, including the crises in the Middle East and Sudan and the detention of colleagues in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
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A significant milestone for the region was the establishment of the IFATCA Africa and Middle East Women Support Group in December 2023. The group aims to foster a safe, inclusive workplace culture and create strong support networks for women Air Traffic Controllers in the region. As part of its initiatives, the group has launched the «Woman-to-Woman Talk Presentation» series, where female leaders in aviation share their journeys, challenges, and successes to inspire and empower others.
The inaugural presentations in January 2025 will feature Ms. Paule Assoumou Koki, the Director General of Cameroon Civil Aviation Authority and Ms. Poppy Khoza, Director of Civil Aviation, South African Civil Aviation Authority. Their insights promise to set an encouraging tone for the presentation series and the year ahead.
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Ahmad Abba
IFATCA EVP Africa & Middle East
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Dear IFATCA Members in the Asia Pacific Region,
Happy New Year! As we step into 2025, I wish you all a healthy, joyful year filled with peace and resilience, even as air traffic volumes rise during this busy season.
Jeju Air Accident at Muan Airport, Republic of Korea
Tragically, the recent Jeju Air accident at Muan Airport, Republic of Korea, has deeply affected our aviation community. I have been in contact with our ATC colleagues in the Republic of Korea, and IFATCA has issued a press release outlining our stance on this unfortunate event. We urge all members to refrain from circulating speculations regarding the incident. It is imperative that we respect the independence and integrity of the investigative process to ensure justice and learnings for the future. Let us stand united in supporting our colleagues and the ongoing investigation.
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Mid-Term Report on the Haneda Airport Accident
Around Christmas, the mid-term report on the January 2nd, 2024 accident at Haneda Airport, Japan, was released. The report highlights three key directions for further investigation, including one concerning ATC operations. Our ATC family in Japan needs time and space as this investigation progresses. More detailed information will be shared during the upcoming Annual Conference in Abu Dhabi. Let us extend our support and solidarity to our colleagues in Japan during this challenging time.
Seasonal Reflections
January and February are typically quieter months in our region, with most regional meetings resuming gradually in March. However, the winter vacation period, coupled with the Chinese New Year at the end of January, often marks a surge in air traffic movements. I encourage all members to approach this busy season with a balanced and peaceful mindset, ensuring safety remains our top priority. |
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| Looking Ahead
The IFATCA communication coordinator, Nicola, recently joined a meeting with me and Raymond from the Macau ATC Association to discuss securing sponsorship for the APRM 2025. Together, we brainstormed potential resources and topics to ensure the meeting will be both memorable and fruitful for all participants. The website for registration is scheduled to go live in April. If you have any suggestions for the meeting content or other events in the region, please feel free to message me anytime. |
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| As we prepare for the year ahead, I encourage everyone to stay engaged with our regional activities and initiatives. Together, we will continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and safety in air traffic control.
Once again, I wish you a prosperous New Year. Let us face the challenges and opportunities of 2025 with determination and unity.
Warm regards,
Cheryl Chen
IFATCA EVP Asia Pacific
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64th IFATCA Annual Conference
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| Do you require a visa/invitation letter to IFATCA2025?
If so please have your MA director email the Conference OC: info@ifatca2025.com
as soon as possible with the request for ALL the delegates from that MA.
This will help OC verify delegates and speed up the visa process. |
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English Language Proficiency in Aviation
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| Why English Proficiency Requires Ongoing Effort |
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For air traffic controllers and pilots, a good level of English proficiency is key to safe communications during everyday operations. Meeting the ongoing requirements is a notable achievement, but it’s just the beginning, since maintaining language proficiency requires dedicated practice.
Regular practice in English, much like recurrent simulator training, helps to prepare for unexpected situations. The language used in daily operations is often routine and predictable but may not fully equip pilots and controllers for high-pressure or non-standard situations, such as emergencies or more complex interactions with international traffic.
Read More Here
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ICAO Operational Data Link Working Group (OPDLWG)
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Markus Johnston (Australia) had the privilege of attending the eighth working group meeting on the ICAO Operational Data Link Working Group (OPDLWG) hosted by Eurocontrol and held in Brussels between 11-15 November 2024. The working group spent considerable time finalising the Global Operational Data Link (GOLD) Manual and proposed amendments to Annexes and PANS provisions for both air-ground and ground-ground data links. Ongoing work includes:
- Updates to SATVOICE Manual
- Updates to Performance Based Communications and Surveillance (PBCS) Manual
- Development of new PBCS Voice Specs for technologies such as SATVOICE
- Initiating discussions on how data link will support trajectory-based operations (TBO)
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ICAO Safety
Management Panel
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Andrew Belshaw, GATCO UK attended the ICAO Safety management Panel, Montreal December 10th -13th 2024.
The SMP is comprised of 43 members, 105 advisers and 2 observers across 31 States and 12 international organizations. This meeting was attended by members, advisers and observers from 25 States and 11 international organisations of which IFATCA was one.
The main task of the SMP is to finalise the updates of ICAO Annex 19 and the associated Safety Management Manual, Doc 9859, as well as producing a new document on Safety Intelligence. Excellent progress is being made and, during the opening address, the SMP was congratulated by Mr. Junrong Liang, President of the Air Navigation Commission (ANC) who commended the SMP on the work thus far to finalise the ANC’s recommendations on Annex 19. Following the President’s address, Mr Pascal Luciani also greeted the panel along with passing on his congratulations on the production of the draft Safety Intelligence Manual (Doc 10159).
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Mental Wellbeing Task Force
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READ MORE HERE about IFATCAs Mental Wellbeing Task Force Update and framework to inform the work planned for the next 3 to 5 years, including the main focus areas for 2025, as well as the feedback from attendance at the International Peer Assist Aviation Coalition IPAAC 2024 Annual Conference in Osaka Japan November 2024
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IFATCA Spotlight Podcast: Peru
In this fifth episode, IFATCA Spotlight heads to South America: host Thorsten Raue interviews Fedor Romero, an air traffic controller from Peru. Fedor shares his journey into air traffic control, detailing his training and experiences in Cusco and Lima.
The conversation explores the current developments at Lima Airport, including the challenges of managing two runways and the need for more air traffic controllers. Fedor also discusses the role of SUCTA Peru, the association representing air traffic controllers in the country, and provides insights into the structure of Peruvian airspace.
You can find this and earlier episodes in your favourite podcast app or directly via this link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2394903/episodes/16401579
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| The dangers of GNSS interference |
| The potential risks of interfering with satellite navigation systems (GNSS) have been well-researched and documented in recent years. IFATCA’s TOC is writing working papers on the subject, and large groups of aviation professionals have held meetings to discuss the issue and to try to find mitigations-unfortunately, without success so far. |
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| Shocking as it was to hear that an Azerbaijani E190 had been shot near Grozny last December, forcing it to crash-land in Kazakhstan, this is unfortunately not a new scenario. It has happened many more times in the past. Wikipedia maintains an impressive (yet depressing) list of airliner shootdown incidents. |
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What will you find if you browse WIKIFATCA?
- An archive of all the working papers since 1968
- Abbreviations and definitions
- The TPM (technical professional manual)
- A whole plethora of wiki categories from aerodrome operations to surveillance
Topics of interest have been classified and grouped in different categories, to facilitate the research of a specific subject, and to narrow down the amount of information relevant to a given topic.
If you haven’t checked out WIKIFATCA check out this link!
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| How did you like this issue of the IFATCA Circular? |
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Peter van Rooyen
Executive Vice President Professional
Home Association:
The Guild of Air Traffic Controllers of South Africa, GATCSA
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Ahmad Abba
Executive Vice President Africa & Middle East
Home Association:
Nigerian Air Traffic Controllers’ Association
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Tatiana Iavorskaia
Office Manager and Secretariat
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David Perks
Liaison Officer ICAO ANC
Home Association: The Civil Air Operations Officers’ Association of Australia (CAOOAA)
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Nicola Nì Rìada
Communications Coordinator
Home Association:
Irish Air Traffic Controllers’ Association (IATCA)
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