Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has begun the first in-country aerodrome control course using the newly installed Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower simulator.
MACL stated the course is approved by the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (MCAA) and conducted to the international standards set by International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). The aerodrome control course is a nine-week programme during which international and national instructors will train air traffic controllers.
MACL introduced the ATC tower simulator last month to solve the issue of the lack of skilled workers in the aviation sector. The simulator is equipped with the latest technology and will provide much-needed training for ATC officers. Trainees will be able to observe a simulation of the ATC tower in a 50-mile radius using the new system, with 3D images and flight movements.
At the simulator introduction ceremony, Deputy Chief Officer of MACL Ibrahim Thoha said the improvements made to ATC training will have a significant positive impact on the entire aviation sector. He noted that the simulator is worth USD 259,000 and is expected to minimise the cost of training air traffic controllers abroad each year.
Also at the ceremony, General Manager of Air Traffic Services Ibrahim Hameed said he expects MACL to become renowned for conducting the best ATC training in the region with the addition of the simulator.
MACL is currently operating ATC officers in 17 airports in the Maldives.