The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has confirmed that Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the first traffic control tower in the US to upgrade to the modernised Tower Simulation System to enhance controller safety and training.
The advanced Tower Simulation System is used for controller training for airport operations. It includes a visual database to simulate air traffic scenarios on the airport’s layout and in its airspace.
“Safety is our priority, and we are investing in new technologies that provide enhanced training for our air traffic controllers. The new simulators will help us achieve that by providing real scenarios to train controllers throughout the National Airspace System.”
The new Tower Simulation System is now live and operational at AUS. The FAA also plans to install the system in 95 additional facilities by the end of 2025.
Alongside enhancing safety, this modernisation plan will reduce the time it takes for controllers to fully certify at air traffic facilities.
