Air traffic controllers keep aircraft soaring

  • Published
  • By 2nd Lt. Tania Bryan
  • 379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA (AFPN) --  Air traffic controllers of the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing here were responsible for more than 1,250 operations on their airfield and in their airspace in just one week in April.

With dozens of combat and combat support sorties originating here every day, it's not hard to realize air traffic controllers have a direct impact on the war on terrorism, said Tech. Sgt. Eric Briggs, the 379th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron air traffic control watch supervisor.

"We provide a safe environment for our aircraft to operate in," he said. "Without air traffic controllers, there would be no air operations, because there would be no way of securing a safe landing zone or safe airfield for departure."

Communication is crucial for air traffic controllers, but sometimes understanding one language spoken by pilots from various countries can be a challenge. While English is the universal language of flight operations, deployed controllers have the added confusion of unfamiliar accents or aircrew who may not use English as their primary language.

A unique element that allows the controllers here to help combat the language difference is a partnership with host nation air traffic controllers.

"It's always good to have them up here working, especially when their air force is flying because some pilots struggle with English," Sergeant Briggs said. "The locals have a way of understanding what they are asking for."

"I've really enjoyed working with the host nation and coalition partners. It teaches you to listen better," said Senior Airman Eric Kindle, an air traffic control journeyman. "Every time an aircraft takes off, you know that pilot is going out to do something that is in support of the war on terrorism. If it wasn't for the controllers, the planes wouldn't get to where they need to go."

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