A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF COMPETENCY AND TRAINING PERSPECTIVES AMONG AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLERS

Çinar, Ertan; Tuncal, Arif · 2024 · Crossref

DOI: 10.3846/aviation.2024.21501

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Summary

This study investigates air traffic controllers’ perspectives on competency, performance, and training, addressing a gap in literature regarding how controllers approach competency awareness, assessment, sustaining, and development. The research was motivated by the critical role of air traffic controllers in ensuring flight safety and the need to understand how they adapt to evolving industry demands, including technological advancements and new procedural standards. Specifically, the study examines the interplay between training and performance and evaluates the effectiveness of competency-based training programs versus individual training efforts. The researchers employed a descriptive survey methodology, collecting data from 182 professional air traffic controllers working in various units, including aerodrome control towers, approach control units, and area control centers. Participants were categorized by experience levels ranging from 0–2 years to 19+ years. The survey utilized a seven-question instrument with a five-point Likert scale to measure attitudes toward competency awareness, assessment, sustaining, development, individual training, competency-based training, and the relationship between training and performance. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, employing one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test for significant differences based on experience and unit type, following verification of normal distribution through skewness and kurtosis values. The results indicated high overall consensus among controllers regarding the importance of competency, with mean scores above 4.4 for awareness, assessment, sustaining, and development. Statistical analysis revealed that while there were no significant differences in perspectives based on the type of ATC unit, experience level significantly influenced attitudes toward sustaining competencies, competency development, and individual training. Controllers with 19+ years of experience demonstrated significantly higher engagement in sustaining competencies and individual training compared to less experienced peers. Additionally, controllers with 19+ years of experience showed greater willingness to engage in competency development than those with 3–10 years of experience. Competency-based training programs received positive feedback across all experience levels, with no significant differences observed based on experience or unit. The study concludes that fostering a culture of continuous learning is essential within air traffic control communities. The findings suggest that experienced controllers place a higher value on continuous learning and individual training to adapt to industry changes and achieve career goals. The authors recommend that aviation authorities support this by providing diverse training opportunities, including both individual and competency-based programs. The research highlights the potential effectiveness of competency-based training in optimizing performance and addressing specific skill gaps. Future research is suggested to investigate the impact of technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, on ATC competencies and to further evaluate the effectiveness of these training models in ensuring aviation safety.

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