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Dear IFATCA Family,
As we move steadily toward the much-anticipated IFATCA Annual Conference, I am pleased to share an update on the progress and recent activities. The IFATCA Executive Board (EB) recently met in Johannesburg, South Africa, for the first in-person meeting of 2025. The energy, commitment and enthusiasm displayed by everyone, reaffirmed the strength and unity of the EB and I am delighted to report that our work is proceeding very well.
The EB meeting was both productive and inspiring, allowing us to tackle key topics that will shape the future of IFATCA. Among the core issues discussed were the strategic direction of the Federation, operational and financial considerations and how best to support professional and technical development of our Member Associations.
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One of the highlights of our meeting was the opportunity to engage with our colleagues from the Guild of Air Traffic Controllers of South Africa, GATCSA, who generously hosted the meeting in great facilities at the ATNS Training Academy in Johannesburg.
As we look ahead to the Annual Conference in Abu Dhabi late April/early May, we can confidently say that preparations are on track, and we are together with the Emirates Aviation Association, EAA, shaping an event that will be both meaningful and memorable. The Conference promises to be an excellent platform for discussion, learning and collaboration among professionals from all over the world. From technical panels and policy debates to networking sessions and cultural experiences, this event will not only address the pressing challenges our industry faces but also celebrate the spirit of camaraderie that defines IFATCA.
The theme of our upcoming Conference, Recruitment and Training, Our Flightplan for the Future, reflects the evolving landscape of air traffic control and the importance of embracing change while maintaining the highest levels of safety. The aviation industry continues to recover and adapt in the wake of global disruptions, and this conference will provide us with a vital opportunity to share insights, exchange best practices, and collectively forge a path forward.
Beyond the formal sessions, I am particularly looking forward to the opportunity to reconnect with friends, colleagues and new members of our growing Federation. IFATCA is built upon relationships and there is no substitute for the face-to-face interactions that our Annual Conference facilitates. The bonds we strengthen in Abu Dhabi will carry forward into our daily work, ensuring that our global community remains resilient, innovative, and united in its mission.
With only a short time remaining until we gather in Abu Dhabi, I encourage all participants to finalize their travel plans and prepare for an enriching experience. If you have not yet registered, I urge you to do so as soon as possible so that you do not miss out on what promises to be a landmark event for IFATCA. I look forward to seeing each and everyone of you. I wish you safe travels in clear skies and see you soon!
Warm regards,
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| Helena Sjöström Falk
President and CEO |
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Regional News & Activities
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Many countries celebrate Women’s History month in March and International Women’s Day on March 8th.
During this time, we recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of the many talented women in our region, as well as those who paved the way before them, to the air traffic control profession we hold dear. We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to the many women who perform outstanding work each day in their roles as air traffic controllers.
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Due to the resignation of EVP Professional, effective at the closing plenary of the 2025 annual conference in Abu Dhabi, NATCA nominated me for the position of EVPP, with nominations closing on 28 February. Committee A will then forward the names for all candidates nominated for the EB positions to final plenary for election. While I am the only candidate nominated for EVPP, I hope the Directors will elect me to the position. It would be an honor to step into this very important position, and I look forward to working more closely with the IFATCA volunteers on the PLC, CISM, Training and Mental Well Being Task Forces, the Speak English Program, and collaborating further with other Industry Organizations on aviation professional matters as directed by the Executive Board.
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Since May 2021, I have been privileged to serve as the EVP for the Americas (AMA) region. Working alongside such talented and dedicated individuals has been an incredibly rewarding experience, and together, we have grown stronger. As I announced at the Singapore conference, I did not plan to seek another term as EVP AMA. My current term was originally set to conclude at the Romania conference in 2026, with the regional vote scheduled for the 2025 regional meeting. However, with the opening of the EVPP, the timeline has changed. To submit my candidacy for EVPP, I respectfully resigned as EVP effective closing plenary, which then opened the nomination for the position to fill the role for the remainder of the term. Andrew LeBovidge (USA) was nominated for EVP AMA, and no other candidates were nominated. If elected, he will assume the role at the closing plenary in Abu Dhabi. His term will end at the closing plenary of the 2026 annual conference, with nominations opening prior to the regional meeting in 2025, where voting will take place for interested candidates.
Thanks to Andrew (and NATCA)!! We will immediately begin work to ensure a smooth transition.
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We are just over a month away from joining fellow air traffic controllers in Abu Dhabi for the 64th annual IFATCA Conference. However, due to the distance and expense from the Americas (AMA) region, fewer than half of our Member Associations (MAs) will be in attendance. While the AMA region will have a smaller contingent this year, I know those attending will be committed to actively engaging with their viewpoints and perspectives. For any MAs that are not attending, please designate your proxy to an attending MA. Click here for a proxy.
MAs will soon be receiving submitted working papers (WP) from the IFATCA office. On 11 April at 2100UTC the AMA region will hold a ZOOM call to discuss and answer questions on the Conference WPs. The ZOOM link will be sent via email and WhatsApp closer to the 11th.
Regional Meeting 2025: The Guyana Air Traffic Controllers Association is still working to confirm their hosting of the 2025 regional meeting. It is tentatively scheduled for 7-9 October in Georgetown, Guyana. Mark your calendars with more details to follow.
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Trish Gilbert
IFATCA EVP Americas
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While February 2025 saw several meetings taking place for EVPEUR and his team, the highlight of the month was notably the SESAR JU Annual Conference 2025: “Advancing European Air Traffic Management”
On 18 February 2025, the SESAR JU Annual Conference took place at the Sheraton Hotel, Brussels Airport, unveiling the new European ATM Master Plan (MasterPlan2025). This strategic roadmap outlines the vision, deployment objectives, and development priorities essential for modernizing European air traffic management (ATM), emphasizing the expected benefits and necessary investments.
The conference was officially opened by Dariusz Klimczak, Minister of Infrastructure of Poland; Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism; and Jan-Christoph Oetjen, Member of the European Parliament. Their message reinforced Europe’s ambition: “Making Europe the most environmentally friendly sky to fly in the world,” now a core objective of the SESAR program.
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The event brought together key policymakers, industry leaders, and aviation stakeholders. Among them was Marc Baumgartner, IFATCA SESAR Coordinator, who represented IFATCA in the panel discussion, “Creating the Conditions for Successful Roll-out: Essentials for Success.” Attendees, including Frédéric Deleau, IFATCA EVPEUR, also explored the Digital Sky Marketplace Exhibition, showcasing cutting-edge SESAR JU projects and innovations shaping the future of ATM. IFATCA actively contributes to this evolution through its participation in two research consortia: CODA and AWARE.
A Commitment to Digitalizing European ATM
A key highlight of the conference was the presentation of a joint statement supporting a new service delivery model for European ATM. Dutch, Lithuanian, and Norwegian air navigation service providers (LVNL, Oro Navigacija, Avinor), alongside IFATCA and EUROCONTROL, joined a growing coalition of industry leaders endorsing the digital transformation of airspace management.
https://www.sesarju.eu/news/growing-industry-consensus-new-service-delivery-model-air-traffic-management
This initiative builds upon commitments made in 2024, when CEOs from the A6 Alliance of air navigation service providers (COOPANS, DFS, DSNA, ENAIRE, ENAV, NATS, PANSA, Skyguide), along with leading industry manufacturers (Frequentis, Indra, Leonardo, Thales), pledged their support for a data-driven, cloud-based, service-oriented architecture (SOA). This transition is set to enhance safety, efficiency, and sustainability across European aviation, reinforcing a shared vision for a smarter and greener future in ATM.
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The SESAR Annual Conference 2025 marked another milestone in Europe’s aviation modernization, demonstrating a strong commitment to digital transformation and cross-industry collaboration.
The rest of the work of the EVPEUR Team focused on developing new strategic ideas for EUR and build new “bridges”.
More on this development will come in the coming months and parts will be presented during the ERM at Annual Conference 2025 in Abu Dhabi.
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An interesting seminar on weather disturbances was organised by our friends and colleagues from VLNG (The Netherlands) on 05/03/2025 in Amsterdam. While EVPEUR could not unfortunately attend, we hope to follow this important and interesting topic during the next months as it surely became a hot issue for the European Network.
This seminar brought experts – Eric Avila and Zeb Snyder, NATCA – Steven Moore – Head of ATM Network Operations at EUROCONTROL – Alba Cruz Rodriguez and Alfonso Guerrero Galan – USCA and Olivia May – GATCO. This very nice initiative was a success brought by the VLNG and also possible thanks the network of colleagues that IFATCA facilitates. An great initiative to be followed!
As an example, weather related disturbances on 21/07/2024 created 400.000 minutes of delays across the European Network…That’s just one out of several days of summer 2024! And the impact seemingly is increasing due to climate change related phenomena, so we shall all be prepared to adjust and reduce the risks as much as possible when such weather can disturb our areas of responsibility. Safety shall always remain our top priority!
To conclude, we unfortunately experience increased troubled times in Europe and historical changes might just be next to our doorstep, with shifting priorities and “alliances”. While certainly being disturbing to read and hear about the “noise of boots”, we shall not forget our objectives as well as all our friends and colleagues doing their utmost to keep the highest professional and ethical standards in Europe, and beyond, globally. With honor and pride, we stand more than ever for our values and will defend our interests, with a humanist spirit. There shall be no misunderstanding, and it shall not default. We are ATC – all together – and EUR will continue to support our profession for all, and especially for the women and men making the “magic” peacefully happen 24/7.
To all our friends and colleagues celebrating Ramadan this month: Ramadan Mubarak.
TOGETHER – FURTHER!
Frédéric Deleau
IFATCA EVP Europe
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The Africa and Middle East Region started March with great enthusiasm, celebrating International Women’s Week, leading up to International Women’s Day on March 8th. To mark the occasion, the AFM Women Support Group launched an initiative where female air traffic controllers from across the region shared videos showcasing their daily responsibilities. These videos provided an inside look into their professional lives and were widely shared on social media, helping to raise awareness and inspire future generations of women in aviation. Participants came from Nigeria, Zambia, Djibouti, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Senegal, Uganda, Malawi, Tunisia, Kenya, Niger, and Angola.
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In my International Women’s Day message, I expressed deep appreciation for the grace, expertise, and unwavering commitment of female Air Traffic Controllers across the region. Their contributions are essential to the efficiency and safety of air navigation, and it is inspiring to see their dedication. This year’s theme, «Accelerate Action,» aligns perfectly with our region’s commitment to fostering growth and inclusivity.
To support this, the AFM Women Support Group continues to champion initiatives that empower women in aviation. One key initiative under its auspices is the «Woman to Woman Talk Series,» a platform designed to promote mentorship, networking, and open discussions. This series provides a safe and supportive space for women to share experiences, seek guidance, and develop professionally. Through these efforts, we are building a future where women in aviation feel empowered to advance their careers and take on leadership roles.
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In addition to celebrating women in aviation, the Malawi Air Traffic Controllers Association (MATCA) conducted outreach visits to Ngumbe Community Day Secondary School and Stella Maris in Southern Malawi. These visits aimed to educate students, teachers, and administrators about MATCA’s role in regulating and developing the aviation industry. The interactions sparked curiosity and interest among students, broadening their understanding of career opportunities in aviation, particularly in Air Traffic Control. This initiative aligns with MATCA’s mission to inspire and nurture the next generation of aviation professionals, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the industry.
Further supporting aviation education, RVP Southern Africa, Allan Manema, served as the keynote speaker at the Junior Aviation Certificate Graduation Ceremony on February 9th. The event, organized by Flight Wings Aviation in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Member Association (ATCAZ), celebrated students who had completed an immersive aviation program. The Junior Aviation Certificate Program introduces high school and college students to the aviation industry, offering hands-on experiences and practical knowledge. Through this program, young students gain valuable insights into careers such as Air Traffic Control, piloting, and aviation management. This initiative bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world aviation careers, equipping students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to pursue their aspirations.
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As a region, we remain committed to promoting diversity, inclusion, and professional development within the aviation industry. Through initiatives like the AFM Women Support Group, the Woman to Woman Talk Series, student outreach programs, and aviation education initiatives, we are fostering a dynamic and sustainable future for air traffic management in Africa and the Middle East.
Ahmad Abba
IFATCA EVP Africa & Middle East
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Dear members in APAC region,
This month’s circular , we’d like to bring your attention to the work of regional VPs.
The SEA Region
The Air Traffic Controllers Association (Singapore), also known as ATCA-S, in collaboration with the Southern Region Air Traffic Services Company (SORATS), organized a technical visit to the Tan Son Nhat ATC Tower and Ho Chi Minh Area Control Center (ACC) on 22 February 2025. This visit highlighted the strong partnership between the air traffic authorities of Singapore and Vietnam, which plays a crucial role in managing the growing air traffic across the Asia-Pacific region.
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| The visit was a valuable platform for enhancing operational understanding, strengthening professional relationships, and facilitating knowledge exchange on best practices. It also provided an opportunity for meaningful personal interactions with fellow ATC counterparts—putting a face to the voices that ATCOs communicate with daily.
ATCA-S looks forward to future technical visits, to further reinforce collaboration and teamwork, and contribute to the continued excellence of regional air traffic management.
The SWA Region
ATC Guild India was invited to join a Seminar on February 27, 2025 on Aviation Technology by Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) in association with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, India along with Nippon Koei India at New Delhi.
This seminar provided an excellent platform for discussing and sharing innovative technologies and strategies aimed at minimizing aircraft noise, a significant environmental and operational concern for airports and surrounding communities.
The seminar covered various aspects of noise reduction, such as advanced aircraft design, engine technology, operational procedures, and noise monitoring systems. It serves as an opportunity to learn from experts, exchange ideas, and explore the latest advancements in noise control, contributing to more sustainable aviation practices globally.
Also discussed cleanliness and safety within airports, especially in high-traffic areas, to reduce the risk of contamination and ensure optimal hygiene. |
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| Upcoming online meetings for the directors and delegates to the IFATCA annual conference
Don’t forget that we will meet online on the 24th March at 0700UTC for a pre-departure briefing for those who will be attending the annual conference in Abu Dhabi! We will also share info on webinars and workshops planned for the region in the near future. Hope to see many of you at the online meeting.
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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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The annual conference webapp is now live. The webapp is under construction, come back regularly as content is uploaded as it becomes available! Follow the instructions above to set up your shortcut and check back frequently for the latest updates.
https://ifatca.org/ifatca2025/
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Executive Board Bi-annual Meeting
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IFATCAs Executive Board had their bi-annual in person meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa Feb 24-27. A very busy agenda included finalising the work for annual conference, as well as reports from all board members, updates and strategic planning for the federation!
A very sincere thanks to hosts GATCSA – Guild of Air Traffic Controllers South Africa and ATNS.
The board are pictured with Poovendran Moodley – President of GATCSA and Byron Post – VP Policy.
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Jez Pigden Visits Romania
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| IFATCA conference coordinator Jez Pigden recently visited Romania who are hosting the 2026 annual conference. Preparations are well underway!
Is your MA thinking of hosting in 2027 2028 or beyond? Please contact Jez or your EVP if you are!!
Photo from L-R:Virgil Dinu- (RATCA president), Lǎcrǎmioara (Lacra) Popescu- RATCA, Jez Pigden IFATCA conference coordinator, Adrian Cojoc- DG ROMATSA,
Cristian Radu- RATCA, OC chair Cristina Vîlcov- Smart Way Travel & Events |
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To submit a Job Card go to IFATCA.org, under the ifatca.net tab go to manuals, documents and templates. https://ifatca.org/docs-manuals-templates/
The Job Card is a simple google form.
The Job Card then goes to the standing committees who will decide whether to add the task to the working programme.
It couldn’t be simpler!
Make IFATCA work for you!
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International Women’s Day
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On International Women’s Day 2025, for the fifth year in a row, the international professional staff organisations in aviation issued a statement in support of the UN IWD theme: For ALL women and girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.
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Betsy Beaumont Represents
EDI Task Force in Kazakhstan
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The 2025 ICAO EUR/NAT Workshop on Gender Equality and Empowerment of Women (Almaty, Kazakhstan March 4/5th 2025) brought together stakeholders from across the EUR/NAT area to share experiences and best practices on mentoring and other initiatives that empower women in aviation. IFATCA was ably represented by Betsy Beaumont, Co-Chair of the IFATCA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Task Force.
The agenda featured keynote speakers to inspire young women, interactive sessions on mentoring, and success stories from aviation organizations highlighting effective policies and practices that are advancing gender equality in aviation.
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Karen Meijer, of the RISE Program:
«Safe skies are built on skills, not gender»
Aigerim Narbyeva of the Civil Aviation Academy: «Aviation knows no boundaries. But I would like to change that to Aviation Knows no Gender.»
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This is particularly relevant when DEI is misunderstood or misrepresented. DEI ensures everyone who is qualified is allowed the same opportunity, no matter the skin color or gender. DEI is not quotas or dictating who you hire. True DEI embraces what everyone brings to the table, so we as a sector can be better.
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The Calm in the Storm:
IFATCA’s Commitment to DEI
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IFATCA’s Commitment to DEI, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
by EDI task force chair Sverre Ivar Elsbak (Norway)
IFATCA inherently believes in equity, diversity and inclusion. We know it makes us stronger as an international organization. Our collaboration between member associations from all over the world, is proof that EDI works. IFATCA believes that all of our members should feel safe, seen, valued and included. Our members are IFATCA.
READ MORE HERE
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World Sleep Day, make sleep health a priority for air traffic controllers by the IFATCA mental Wellbeing Task Force
The operational demands in aviation continue to evolve, as technology does, but human physiology remains unchanged. An imbalance of physical and mental demands, as well as a lack of sleep results in different health damages such as fatigue.
Read the Full Article Here
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IFATCA’s industry partner FoxATM launched Global Airspace Radar, the multi-channel source of information for airspace management stakeholders, brought to you by our team with direct industry experience. Our website has Daily news, analysis of industry trends, interviews with key leaders and thought leadership articles to keep you up to date. We also edit a fortnightly newsletter which is the perfect overview of the most important news, the latest innovations and insights from our team of experts. Follow Global Airspace Radar on Linkedin to ensure you don’t miss any important updates and listen to our «Radar Contact» podcast to join the conversation with key players on the hottest airspace management industry topics.
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IFATCA is delighted to welcome our newest Industry partner PROBOTEK (Professional Robotic Technologies).
PROBOTEK is a Greek-based technology company specializing in Mission Critical Software, Robotic Drones/UxV, IoT (Internet of Things), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Systems Integration. Founded in 2019, the company offers a range of services focused on leveraging drones, IoT and advanced AI to solve complex enterprise challenges. Our solutions include mission-critical software platforms, AI-driven drones, and UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) designed for industries such as logistics, security, defense, and environmental monitoring. PROBOTEK also owns a subsidiary in the UK – PROBOTEK AI.
For the aviation services sector, PROBOTEK has developed APOLLO – A Next-Gen advanced Short Term Conflict Alert (STCA) system, engineered to monitor all aircrafts in real-time delivering visual and auditory alerts to Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) for the aircraft in possible conflict. The system maintains a log featuring two categories: soft collisions and imminent collisions, thereby assisting Air Traffic Controllers in making informed decisions promptly. APOLLO is compatible with any aviation RADAR and requires no integration, making it hardware and infrastructure agnostic for use in any air traffic control tower!
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IFATCA Spotlight Podcast
The IFATCA Spotlight Podcast is made by ATCOs for ATCOs and provides insight into different challenges and solutions ATCOS face worldwide.
In this episode of IFATCA Spotlight, host Thorsten Raue interviews Wei Ting, aka Kathy, from the ROCATCA Taiwan, exploring her journey to becoming an air traffic controller, the structure and demographics of air traffic controllers in Taiwan, and the unique challenges faced in managing air traffic in a politically sensitive region. The conversation delves into the operational environment, the importance of teamwork among controllers, and the engagement with pilots to enhance understanding and cooperation. Wei Ting also shares insights on the impact of natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons on air traffic control operations. Find the episode here.
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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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