the Island.

Five Islanders are training to become air traffic controllers in a drive to Bermudianise the posts.

After four months' intensive training in England they are now getting hands-on experience in the control tower on the former US Naval Base, which overlooks the airport's runway.

The five, Mr. Burton Bruce, Mr. Howard Viera, Mrs. Carla Crockwell, Mr. Jamie Sapsford and Mr. John Pitcher, are working shifts at the tower guiding in the 20 planes that land every day.

Yesterday, Mr. Bruce, 31, who has worked in aviation for 10 years, said: "Everything has gone smoothly. The training in England was very intensive and very good. We are confident of passing the training.'' And Mr. Viera, a former co-pilot, added: "The training in England really prepared us for this, otherwise it would have been a bit of a shock. There was a simulator in England which prepared us for reality.'' All five are part of a programme to Bermudianise the airport when Serco pulls out.

Mr. Lonnie Mitchell, air traffic control services manager, said on-the-job training was being provided by six Canadians.

"Hopefully we will have the trainees qualified by the end of the year, however that is not set in concrete. If they qualify there will be a pool of air traffic controllers to help Bermudianise the airport,'' he added.

IN THE CONTROL TOWER -- Trainee air traffic contollers Mr. Burton Bruce (seated) and Mr. Howard Viera.