The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) was founded on 20 October 1961 by 12 European national ATC associations. On its 20th anniversary on 20 October 1981 IFATCA decided to name the day “the day of the controller” and ever since member associations have celebrated 20 October as the International Day of the Air Traffic Controller.
IFATCA is one of the oldest such organizations on the planet and they have represented their members through years of fundamental change that altered not only the industry ATCOs are required to serve but their job and tasks as well. What did not change is the importance of this silent army of professionals who, day in and day out, do their best to keep air traffic flowing safely and efficiently.
We at Roger-Wilco have a particular soft spot for controllers since yours truly started his professional career as an air traffic controller… And you know how it is. Once a controller, always a controller!
Happy Controllers’ Day everyone!
