Aerodrome Controller (ADC)
Air Traffic Control is typically something you have to learn from practise. Of course, there is a lot of theoretical knowledge required, but only by exercising and doing it, you can really learn to control air traffic.
Therefore you start as an observer watching, looking and listening. Meanwhile you read the documents and then comes the big first time moment you start to practise yourself.
Quite often it is wise to ask for help and take some training with a trainer to help you out or participate in the on-line training sessions.
Exam
As soon as you feel ready and have sufficient hours logged on-line, you may do a first theoretical exam on-line. The subject will be IvAc, the IVAO software we use for on-line controlling. This exam is based on a multiple choice system where you have to answer a set number of questions within a limited time frame. It is to confirm that you know how to use this software.
The first steps on-line as a controller will be at the positions of Delivery and Ground. There are no practical exams for these positions, since that comes all together with the Aerodrome Controller's exam. Therefore you have to concentrate on the combined practical training for Delivery, Ground and Tower.
Only after successful completing of a second theoretical part (again multiple choice on-line) you can apply for the ADC practical exam.
Make sure you are properly prepared instead of getting a “failed exam”.
What to expect?
The Aerodrome Controller controls the whole of the Aerodrome and its close surrounding. That includes, at least during the exam, the positions of Delivery (DEL) and Ground (GND). You have to show that you know all about these tasks in addition to the typical Tower duties.
Be advised, that although in IVAO we look at a radar picture, the tower controller does not provide radar control. In principle he should not give headings and he does not separate traffic based on radar separation minima like 5 miles between traffic. The Tower controller looks out of his tower “windows” to get the traffic picture used to control and separate. That's where the many hours of practise have to come in. Normally this exam will be taken at EBBR. Be prepared and know the local procedures.
Tasks
The Aerodrome or Tower controller is responsible for the whole airfield and the control zone around it. He handles all traffic, on the ground and in the air, VFR and IFR, arriving and departing, either via published departure routes or visual tracks, traffic in the visual circuit and arriving traffic on ILS. He has to safely and expeditiously mix them all.
Theoretical
Without doubt you will understand that for this complicated function a lot of theory is required. Amongst others you need to know:
- Decode METAR / TAF
- Ability to explain the charts for ADC operation including SID, ground charts, VFR in/out charts
- Good knowledge of VFR rules, SVFR, Night VFR and controlled VFR. (as applicable in the division)
- Explain Y and Z flight plans including procedures for giving the appropriate clearance
- Knowledge of the VFR–procedures (compulsory reporting points, altitudes and other restrictions if issued for the airport)
- Knowledge of airspace set up in the CTR (control zone), TMA and FIR around the airport including airspace classifications, also related from the point of view of separation, information, responsibilities pilot / controller
- Understand the contents and use of a flight strip
- Understand and know to use IVAC (main functions)
- Knowledge of RVR, remaining TORA from intersections / Cat II/III operations.
- Knowledge of TRL/TA, QNH, QFE, QDM, QDR, wake turbulence separations according a/c mass, important aerodrome MET- phenomena (wind shear) and how to inform the pilot about it
Practical
The practical exam will concentrate on the handling of a sufficient amount of traffic, properly mixed between VFR and IFR, so as to show the full ability of all tasks for an aerodrome controller.
More specific, amongst others:
- Fill out ATIS correctly
- Chose correct RWY(s) in use taking Wind direction and TAF as well as existing LoA issued by IVAO FIR Staff
- check filed flight plans (route only SID up to the first point entering Airway)
It is NOT required to check the REQ FL for flights - Ability to give a non SID IFR clearance with radar-vectors
- Ability to give a non SID IFR clearance specified by APP/CTR, fixes, altitudes or radials.
- Ability to handle ground traffic (VFR+IFR) from parking position to take off and vice versa
- Handle all traffic flying in the control zone including all necessary R/T service.
- Correct traffic management and ability to decide which R/T has priority in sequence.
- Handle landing traffic from initial call to the gate
- Perform correct hand-off's to next unit (APP / Centre) including correct flight strip marking.
- Handling of traffic in Emergency
More detailed information about this exam requirements can be found at http://ivao.aero/training/
Attentively read this document as to be aware of what to expect !!
Additional notes
There is no limit regarding the number and density of traffic. Therefore, make sure you can
perform your ‘duties’ under heavy traffic and high work load. In the event of a lack of traffic, it’s the
examiner’s responsibility to reschedule the exam so that it’s performed in decent conditions.
Combination of (several) VFR transits and visual circuits and IFR departures and arrivals will occur. Be sure you can handle all of that at once!
Before and/or after the exam, the examiner may ask you theoretical question you should be able to
answer, even if none occurred during the exam itself. (e.g. explain wake-vortex requirements, explain how to get runway and ILS information for any airport, explain the importance of Minimum Descent Altitude and Decision Height, co-ordination between approach and departures, and any other information relevant to ground and tower procedures).
Advice
- Make sure you have all the necessary charts available because you can’t pass without them.
- Make sure you go to the bathroom and eat properly before the exam. I would advice you to keep a bottle of water not too far away from you during the exam.
- If you feel uncertain of your capabilities, do not hesitate to request anyone of the training section on forehand. Staff members may give you a ‘check-ride’ and evaluate your ability to request the exam.
- Be aware that if the exam isn’t processed within 3 months after its initial request, it will be cancelled again!
References
The IVAO training website at http://ivao.aero/training/exam/briefing_guide.asp
The IVAO Academy wesite at http://academy.ivao.aero/
The Belgium Division website at http://be.ivao.aero/
Like any well trained air traffic controller: Be prepared!
Good luck.
Update 30/12/10