Control Tower Operator Onboarding Checklist

Control Tower Operator Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Control Tower Operator 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 Aviation onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Control Tower Operator, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Control Tower Operator onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Control Tower Operator Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new control tower operator attends an orientation session to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated trainer.

2. Introduction to the Control Tower: The new operator is given a tour of the control tower facility, including an overview of the equipment, systems, and technology used in air traffic control operations. This task is usually performed by a senior control tower operator or a supervisor.

3. Training on Air Traffic Control Systems: The new operator undergoes comprehensive training on the specific air traffic control systems used by the company. This includes learning how to operate radar displays, communication equipment, and other essential tools. The training is typically conducted by experienced control tower operators or specialized trainers.

4. Familiarization with Standard Operating Procedures: The new operator is provided with a detailed manual or handbook that outlines the company’s standard operating procedures (SOPs) for air traffic control. They are expected to study and understand these procedures thoroughly. This task is usually overseen by a senior control tower operator or a training coordinator.

5. Shadowing Experienced Operators: The new operator shadows experienced control tower operators to observe and learn how they handle various situations, such as coordinating aircraft movements, issuing clearances, and managing emergencies. This task is performed by experienced control tower operators who act as mentors or trainers.

6. Simulator Training: The new operator undergoes simulator training to practice air traffic control scenarios in a controlled environment. This allows them to gain hands-on experience and develop their skills in a safe setting. Simulator training is typically conducted by specialized trainers or experienced control tower operators.

7. Communication Training: The new operator receives training on effective communication techniques and protocols used in air traffic control. This includes learning how to communicate with pilots, ground personnel, and other control tower operators. Communication training is usually conducted by experienced control tower operators or communication specialists.

8. Emergency Procedures: The new operator is trained on emergency procedures and protocols to handle critical situations such as aircraft emergencies, severe weather conditions, or equipment failures. This training is typically conducted by experienced control tower operators or safety officers.

9. Certification and Licensing: The new operator completes the necessary certification and licensing requirements mandated by aviation regulatory authorities. This may involve passing written exams, practical assessments, and meeting specific experience criteria. The certification process is overseen by regulatory authorities and may require the support of the company’s training department.

10. Ongoing Professional Development: The new operator is encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development activities, such as attending workshops, conferences, or specialized training programs. This helps them stay updated with the latest industry practices and advancements. The responsibility for ongoing professional development lies with the individual operator, but the company may provide support and resources for such activities

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Control Tower Operator checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Control Tower Operator up to speed and working well in your Aviation 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.