Bermuda’s air traffic controllers have been celebrated for their vital role in ensuring that operations at LF Wade International Airport run smoothly.

Marking the International Day of the Air Traffic Controller on Thursday, Lester Nelson, the chief executive officer of the Bermuda Airport Authority, said that a team of both experienced and newly trained controllers enabled the airport to achieve globally accepted ATC standards.

Mr Nelson said: “We acknowledge and thank our entire Air Traffic Control Services team, who direct the safe landing and take-off for aircraft using the LF Wade International Airport — a vital Bermuda gateway to the rest of the world.

“Two of our controllers have each celebrated over 25 years of ATC experience in Bermuda, which started when the Government of Bermuda took over airport operations from the US Navy in 1995.

“In addition, two former controllers are now serving on the airport authority’s leadership team. We have also been pleased with the hiring and training of three new Bermudian controllers in 2021.”

Mr Nelson said that, in addition to guiding incoming aircraft on to the runway, the team also co-ordinates the safe movement of taxiing aircraft to and from the airport’s passenger terminal, executive jet and air cargo facilities.

He said: “In order to achieve the globally accepted ATC objectives of a safe, orderly and expeditious service, our team are supported by the entire airport authority organisation who provide aviation meteorology, air traffic engineering and facility maintenance services.

“The evolution of the air traffic service industry over the past century has seen significant technological change, a continual expansion of aviation regulation and much collaboration between states globally to help ensure convenient and safe accessibility to the world for today’s traveller.”