AAI to implement two-stream ATC rating system for Air Traffic Controllers

The timely move of AAI to switch over from the existing Single Stream-Multiple Ratings for a controller to the proposed Two-Stream Rating Process is another major safety initiative from AAI which has already implemented many ANS safety initiatives in line with Global Air Navigation Plan. In the recent past, many more pioneering steps had been taken including ANS infrastructure upgradation, Upper Airspace Harmonization, implementation of many parallel route structures, Air Traffic Flow Management etc.

The proposed Two-Stream Rating Process envisages deploying Indian Air Traffic Controllers in either Enroute Stream or Terminal Stream. While the Controllers deployed in Enroute Stream will be responsible for provision of Air traffic Services to the aircraft in Continental/Oceanic Enroute Phase, the Controllers in Terminal Stream will be providing Air Traffic Services to those flights operating around 60 NM from an airport wherein arriving flights from the Enroute phase and Departing flights to join their Enroute Phase operate.

Air Traffic controllers (ATCO), after successfully completing the requisite Ab-initio training and undergoing mandatory on-the-job training are assessed for their competency and skill in line with ICAO standards and DGCA Regulations on the subject.

The Controllers, after having been duly assessed for competency/skill and rated, have a well-developed ability to keep calm under high pressure traffic situations or unusual occurrences, to receive and synthesize different kinds of information related to traffic handling and perform independent duties in the concerned ATC Units. Hence, rating is a unique qualification for an ATCO to perform independent operational duties in an ATC Unit.

AAI - taking a closure view of the present not-so-advantageous multiple-rating system, and with a view to enhancing productivity of ATCOs and safety of aircraft operations - has embarked on the Two-Stream Rating Process in line with the International best practices adopted by major Air Navigation Services providerslike the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) of the US.

When implemented, the Two-Stream ATC Rating System will lead to considerable reduction in the initial and on-the-job training period thereby permitting increased availability of an ATCO for performing independent duties.It also provides scope for increased proficiency/skill levels of ATCOs with less number of Units to focus on and to excel in a particular ATC stream. Thus reducing stress and fatigue levels for the controllers, all leading to enhanced safety and reduced operating costs for the airlines.

It is also worth mentioning that the Indian ANSP has set up a separate Directorate for Certification of ATS Personnel with clear focus on establishing a robust rating system for Indian Air Traffic Controllers and ensuring required competency/skill levels of Air Traffic Controllers.