Global Aviation Experts Gather in Sofia to Shape the Future of Air Traffic Control

International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA)’s Technical and Operations Committee (TOC) and Professional and Legal Committee (PLC) joined together in January 2024 for a group meeting in Sofia, Bulgaria. Among the NATCA members present included Jaymi Steinberg (TOC Chair; Washington Center, ZDC), Betsy Beaumont (TOC member; Dallas-Fort Worth Center, ZFW), and Michelle Trudeau (PLC member; Indianapolis Center, ZID, retired).

The TOC worked on investigating matters of high interest to controllers globally including Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), remote towers, systems based licensing, and updating several policies already in use. The work of the committees can be seen in a variety of ways including developing global policies, sharing information, preparing education, and by IFATCA members serving on International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) panels.

“The value of in-person collaboration and meaningful dialogue when tackling some of the most critical issues we face can not be understated,” Steinberg said. “The groups worked together to review and amend papers so that they are at their best in time for the upcoming conference.”

The IFATCA 2024 Annual Conference will take place in April in Singapore, featuring a theme “Invest in People: The Future of Air Traffic Management.” In a world where the aviation industry is rapidly evolving, placing a strong emphasis on human capital is crucial. Learn more about IFATCA here.