An Cosantóir

www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE | 21 navigation, airspace, and general regulations. This phase was classroom- based, with multiple-choice exams at the end of each subject. All flights during our study period were covered. After a short break at home, we returned to begin the Aerodrome Controllers course. This phase began with two weeks of classroom instruction, focusing on flight progress strips and correct radiotelephony procedures. We then moved into a high-fidelity simulator with a 180-degree visual display, replicating a real ATC tower. The scenarios began with simple ground movements and gradually progressed to airborne traffic and increasingly complex situations. Initially challenging, the simulator phase became deeply rewarding as progress became evident. Each session felt like solving a new puzzle. We completed two final simulator assessments, one involving complex traffic scenarios and one emergency simulation before returning home briefly. The final training phase in Spain was Procedural Approach Control. This involved sequencing aircraft to an aerodrome without radar, relying solely on reporting points and mental visualization. I found this to be the most demanding phase, as it required building a complete mental picture of traffic movement. Like the tower course, it concluded with a complex and an emergency simulator assessment. Spending six months training in Spain was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, one I never expected to experience so early in my career. Upon returning to Baldonnell in August, we began unit-specific training, covering Irish airspace, procedures, and air law. We then progressed to local simulators using a magnetic pinboard system to represent aircraft movements. While less technologically advanced than those in Spain, the system is highly effective in reinforcing procedures and RT discipline. This phase lasted approximately three weeks, increasing in complexity. Live on-the-job training began in late September. Working alongside Officer and NCO instructor's in the tower, I gradually transitioned from guided control to increasing independence. There are ten training objectives divided into three phases, each requiring 30 hours before progression. Phase 1 focused on communications, coordination with other ATC units, and data management. Phase 2 centred on traffic management, conflict resolution, and understanding operational requirements. Phase 3 the final stage, this required maintaining separation, ensuring safety, planning efficiently, and demonstrating initiative and adaptability. The final assessment involved a board of assessors evaluating my ability to control traffic independently, with a safety controller present to intervene if necessary. My experience during live training was extremely positive. Each day in the tower brought new challenges and learning opportunities. Gaining insight from multiple instructors, each with unique experiences, was invaluable. Written feedback after every session allowed me to reflect and improve. Progressing through each phase meant accepting greater responsibility and accountability. Phase 3 was the biggest leap. Controlling independently was daunting at first, but confidence grew with experience. In a role so critical to operations, openness to feedback is essential; every critique is aimed at building competence and ensuring safety. After five months of on-the-job training, my Primary instructor, Capt Healip recommended I be put forward for assessment and a board was convened. Assessment consisted of several sessions during day and night operations where a safety controller and an assessor were present in the tower observing the work I was completing, ensuring I was providing a safe and expeditions level of service. At the end of February, I was proud to receive my Aerodrome Controller rating. The sense of relief and accomplishment was immense. Shaking hands with the ATC Commanding Officer, Comdt Keane and my assessors, Capt Moore and RSM Barrett was a moment I will never forget. I now look forward to commissioning in May alongside my fellow cadets and officially joining 505 Squadron.

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