Airport Controller Onboarding Checklist

Airport Controller Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Airport Controller starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Transportation onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Airport Controller, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Airport Controller onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Airport Controller Onboarding Checklist

1. Introduction to company policies and procedures: The new airport controller should receive a comprehensive overview of the company’s policies and procedures, including safety protocols, emergency response plans, and operational guidelines. This task is typically performed by the Human Resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Familiarization with airport layout and facilities: The airport controller needs to become acquainted with the layout of the airport, including runways, taxiways, terminals, and other facilities. This task is usually facilitated by a senior airport controller or an operations manager.

3. Training on air traffic control systems: The new airport controller should undergo training on the specific air traffic control systems used by the company. This includes learning how to operate radar systems, communication equipment, and other technological tools. The training is typically conducted by experienced air traffic controllers or specialized trainers.

4. Shadowing experienced airport controllers: To gain practical experience and observe real-time operations, the new airport controller should shadow experienced controllers. This allows them to learn about the intricacies of managing air traffic, coordinating with pilots, and making critical decisions. The shadowing is usually organized by the operations manager or a designated mentor.

5. Understanding airport regulations and compliance: The airport controller must be well-versed in local and international aviation regulations, as well as compliance requirements set by regulatory bodies. This task involves studying relevant documents, attending regulatory training sessions, and staying updated on any changes. The responsibility for providing this information often lies with the regulatory affairs department or a compliance officer.

6. Learning emergency response procedures: As an airport controller, it is crucial to be prepared for emergencies such as aircraft accidents, natural disasters, or security threats. The new controller should receive comprehensive training on emergency response procedures, including evacuation plans, communication protocols, and coordination with emergency services. This training is typically conducted by the airport’s emergency management team or safety department.

7. Familiarization with airport-specific software and tools: Many airports utilize specialized software and tools for air traffic control, flight planning, and data management. The new airport controller should receive training on these systems to ensure efficient and accurate operations. This training is often provided by the airport’s IT department or a designated software trainer.

8. Understanding airport security protocols: Airport controllers play a vital role in maintaining airport security. The new controller should receive training on security protocols, including access control, screening procedures, and reporting suspicious activities. This training is typically conducted by the airport’s security department or a designated security officer.

9. Building relationships with key stakeholders: Airport controllers need to establish effective working relationships with various stakeholders, including pilots, airline representatives, ground handling staff, and air traffic control colleagues. The new controller should be introduced to these stakeholders and have opportunities to network and collaborate. This task is often facilitated by the operations manager or a designated mentor.

10. Continuous professional development: To stay updated with industry advancements and enhance their skills, airport controllers should engage in continuous professional development. This may involve attending workshops, conferences, or specialized training programs. The responsibility for organizing and promoting professional development opportunities often lies with the airport’s training and development department or a designated coordinator

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Airport Controller checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Airport Controller up to speed and working well in your Transportation team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.