Shaping the future of air traffic management: highlights from the ATCO Conference

Last week, Prospect’s Air Traffic Control Officers’ (ATCO) Branch held its Annual Delegates Conference.

The three-day event brought together ATCOs and specialists from across the UK, alongside guests from unions in Canada, Spain, France, Australia, and Ireland. We were also joined by Professor Pete Turnbull from Bristol University, who spoke about his research into the skilled aviation labour market across Europe.

Discussions focused on pay and pension arrangements, economic regulation, parental leave, and the provision of HR services in air navigation service providers. A recurring theme was the global issue of understaffing and resource shortages among ATCOs. We welcomed guests from National Air Traffic Services (NATS), who outlined improvements to their recruitment and training processes.

Delegates at the ATCO conference

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) attended on the first day and hosted an informative session on future plans for providing services to aircraft outside controlled airspace. This was a valuable opportunity for constructive discussion and a useful exchange of views.

Delegates also heard from Prospect General Secretary Mike Clancy, who spoke about the wider union’s strength and unity. He also spoke about the opportunities for growing trade unions and the chance to improve workers’ rights through the new Employment Rights Act.

Mike Clancy speaks at the ATCO conference

Several new areas of policy were passed, setting the direction for the branch as it continues its work representing UK air traffic management workers.

Prospect represents thousands of ATCO’s across the UK, working in every part of the aviation system and at every stage of their careers. We have a strong track record of improving pay, terms and conditions and supporting ATCOs through major change.