New Simulators Ready for FAA's Controller Trainees
Tomorrow, air traffic controller trainees in Oklahoma City will become the first in the country to train using new state-of-the-art simulators. "Choosing the best candidates is important; giving them the best training and technology possible is essential," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters. "These simulators will give us better air traffic controllers and will make our skies safer."
Peters noted that the simulators, which are being installed at the Federal Aviation Administration's Monroney Aeronautical Center in Oklahoma City, will give controller trainees a near-lifelike learning environment. She added that the new technology was needed to help prepare the record number of new controllers the federal government will be hiring and training in the coming years.
"This is a huge step toward making our skies safer and the air traffic control system even more efficient," said U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin. "Oklahoma City has long been the home of air traffic control training for our nation, and I am thrilled that we are now home to this exciting new technology." Peters and Fallin visited the facility last month to see firsthand how the 1,451 students at the facility are learning to become new air traffic controllers and aircraft inspectors. During the visit, Peters saw a demonstration of the new simulators in action and observed several classes. She also learned how the new simulators will allow instructors to simulate air traffic conditions at virtually any airport in the world.