On this milestone anniversary, we wanted to re-share the stories of two controllers who worked on 9/11 – alongside the incredible account recorded in the London Area Control supervisor’s log book – in commemoration of the victims, and in thanks for all those who worked on that day and every day to help keep the skies safe. 

As you read this, all our existing Altitude episodes are available to listen as your leisure from all the usual podcast libraries, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Amazon Music.

In this data visualisation, we share an example of a recent infringement at Southampton Airport, to explain how such an incident can have an impact on other airspace activity and users and to help raise awareness in the hope of minimising these occurrences in the coming months.

Frequency Monitor Codes (or ‘squawks’) are an important part of airspace management. They provide a simple way for aircraft to communicate with air traffic controllers and are used by commercial, military, and general aviation aircraft.

If you asked any air traffic controllers to name a threat to our operation, they would likely name infringements. An infringement occurs when an aircraft makes an unauthorised entry into controlled airspace and unfortunately, they are a daily occurrence during the warmer summer months. Find out five ways you can avoid infringing controlled airspace and help keep the airspace safe for everyone.

The end of lockdown and the arrival of blue skies has permitted many general aviation (GA) pilots to get airborne for a flight. There may be some who thought that a one-hour flight was all they needed to refresh their skills, while others have realised that a bit more familiarisation wouldn’t go amiss.  Over the next few weeks, we’ll be looking at the various aspects of infringements, and highlighting specific areas of concern, as well as including some of the methods that can be used to minimise and/or remove the risk. We are all in this together. 

From sonic booms and Quick Reaction Alert, to deployments during Covid and military training exercises, let’s explore the world of 78 Squadron… 

For Armed Forces Week 2021 we’re sharing stories from our own armed forces community made up of people who have served in any branch of the forces: individuals who benefit others by volunteering with their local cadet organisations, reservists who have learned new skills and veterans whose skills and experience now help enrich life at NATS…

This Saturday, 26 June, is Armed Forces Day; an opportunity each year for the public to show support for Armed Forces personnel and their achievements, both past and present. It is also a time to engage, outside of routine work, at the hundreds of formal and informal celebratory events across the country.

While the recent Icelandic volcanic eruption did not impact air travel, Gavin Dixon, from our Prestwick Centre, discusses why some do…