PropHatCat Purrsents

The Brief covers recent developments in air traffic control, including a new controller pay agreement, the return of flight deck observation training, and discussions surrounding the implementation of new technologies in air traffic management.
Takeaways
Controller pay agreement announced
Return of flight deck training
Show notes
Controller pay: DOT announcement and NATCA confirmation. Announced October 16; effective October 18, retroactive to the beginning of 2026. Detailed workforce implementation and individual payment timing require further guidance.
Flight Deck Training: FAA announcement, October 14, and JO 3120.29D. Formal program launch expected after Thanksgiving.
SMART oversight: Congressional request, October 13, and FAA’s description of the system. The request does not establish a suspension or confirmed safety defect.
Surface surveillance: FAA Notice JO 7110.807. Effective October 18, 2026; cancellation date June 10, 2027. Potential effects on upstream traffic are inference, not measured results.

The conversation delves into the intricate behind-the-scenes coordination among air traffic controllers during an emergency landing scenario, highlighting the teamwork and communication required to ensure safety. It emphasizes the critical role of controllers in managing information flow and decision-making to assist pilots effectively during emergencies.
From the 2025 awards committee: Barth realized that, in addition to the standard coordination of emergency services and acquiring field weather information, the clear conditions in the area meant many Visual Flight Rules (VFR) aircraft were operating in the vicinity. He quickly coordinated with adjacent facilities to have air traffic control alert the potentially affected aircraft to allow the Pilatus a smooth transition to the field. He coordinated the relative position of the aircraft, that they would be coming in from a higher than standard altitude, and an alternate runway to facilitate their landing based on their direction. Due to quick thinking and many coordination calls, Barth helped facilitate N928PG making a safe landing at Stewart. After the event, James said to New York TRACON Facility Representative Joe Segretto:, “I just worked a PC-12 from ZNY in the flight levels with no engine into Stewart, and the pilot was absolutely amazing.” 
As Barth reflected on the experience, he cited the strong training he had had throughout his time at Washington Center (ZDC) and N90 as critical elements to making the choices he did that day. “Every day is always a training day because you’re constantly learning, up until the day you retire,” said Barth who also serves as the N90 Training Representative. Barth also cited his experience as a private pilot, helping him to understand what the aviator was going through at the moment. 
James would like to thank his trainers including, but not limited to, Bob Funari (ZDC), Jim Ahlers (ZDC), and Mike Browning (ZDC). He would also like to thank Operations Supervisor Joe Gilbert for quickly springing into action to assist. 
Nominator and colleague Mike Shanahan (N90) said, “Barth addressed all aspects of the aircraft emergency without missing a beat. His ability to remain calm under pressure, provide clear and decisive guidance, and maintain the highest standards of excellence demonstrates his unwavering dedication to the aviation community.”  
Segretto concluded, “[James] is the epitome of a safety professional and a dedicated air traffic controller. Not only is he one of the best air traffic controllers I’ve had the honor of working alongside for the past 16 years at N90, I’m also proud to say he’s one of my truest friends and one of the best coworkers anyone could ask for.” 
Takeaways
Behind-the-scenes coordination is crucial
Effective communication enhances safety

Chapters
00:00 Behind the Scenes of Air Traffic Control
01:14 Emergency Coordination in Action
04:03 Streamlining Pilot Communication
05:52 Successful Emergency Landing

The testimony from Mark DiPalmo, a New York center controller, provides a firsthand account of the events on September 11, 2001. It captures the routine day turned tragic, the efforts to minimize the threat and ground flights, and the emotional impact and personal reflections of the aftermath.

Takeaways
The morning of September 11, 2001, marked a tragic turning point for air traffic controllers and aviation professionals.
The response and accomplishments of the air traffic controllers on September 11, 2001, demonstrated their resilience and dedication to their profession.

Chapters
00:00 The Morning of September 11, 2001
02:57 Clearing the Airspace
04:00 Aftermath and Reflection

The episode features the testimony of James Ekins, an air traffic controller at Boston Center on 9/11. It provides a detailed account of the events of that day, including the response of air traffic controllers and aviation safety professionals to the hijackings and the subsequent actions taken to ensure the safety of aircraft and passengers.

Takeaways
Air traffic controllers' response to the 9/11 attacks
Challenges and decisions faced by air traffic controllers on 9/11

The episode features the testimony of Greg Taccini, an air traffic controller who worked at Boston Center on September 11, 2001. It provides a firsthand account of the events of that day, including the initial communication with American 11, the realization of the hijacking, and the emotional impact on the controller.