IVAO Belgium

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 it.
Therefore you start as an observer watching, looking and listening. Meanwhile you read the documents and than 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.

Note: This is and remains valid for every new controller's position you take.

Exam

As soon as you feel ready and have sufficient hours of practical training on-line, you may do the  next theoretical exam on-line.

This APC exam is based on a multiple choice system where you have to answer a set number of questions within a limited time frame. Only after successful completing of this theoretical part you can apply for the APC practical exam. Make sure you are properly prepared instead of getting a “failed exam”.

Be aware that this exam will be your first one where you will use mainly radar separation.

What to expect?

This exam will be taken at EBBR, which means eventually additional traffic inbound and/or outbound to EBCI and EBAW as well, since in principle in IVAO they are guided by EBBR Approach.
The exam will bring several inbounds and outbounds in a mix, whereby an emergency will occur. In addition a missed approach procedure may need to be re-integrated into the established sequence again. Be aware of the common practises of a radar controller, know the inbound (STAR) and outbound (SID) procedures, as well as standard published approaches and holding procedures.

Tasks

The Approach Controller controls all traffic in the Terminal Area (TMA) around the airfield, or in some cases around several airfields, like in the EBBR TMA. That traffic may come from different directions, but have all to be directed towards the same runway. We call this sequencing. The pilots need to be assisted eventually by vectoring them towards the ILS so that they can finish their final approach with a landing. Or they will perform a standard published approach procedure, like on VOR navigation. In any case, they need to be properly spaced(=sequenced), either by vectoring or by speed control, but mostly by a mix of those two. Know all these techniques, and be prepared.

Theoretical

• Decode METAR / TAF
• Ability to explain the charts for APP operations
• Knowledge of airspace set up in the TMA and FIR around the airport(s) including classifications, also related from the point of view of separation, information, responsibilities pilot / controller
• Knowledge 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
• Respect the obstacle clearance minima (MSA, MRVA)
• Radar vectoring by using proper phraseology, prompt and to the point

Practical

The practical exam will concentrate on the handling of a sufficient amount of traffic, properly mixed so as to show the full ability of all tasks for an approach controller.
More specific, amongst others:

• Fill out ATIS correctly
• Suitable and sufficient coordination with adjacent ATC units in all necessary situations
• Suitable and sufficient traffic information and traffic management
• Handle miscellaneous emergency situations
• Good SSR identification procedures
• Observance of MRVA, MSA, MEA during radar vectoring and direct routes
• Ability to provide radar vectors
• Ability to monitor and assist pilots, if they ask for information
• Use of holding stacks and passing of EATs
• Radar separation

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.
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 approach 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 website 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