What is the Best Way to Prepare for the FAA Air Traffic Control Academy?

The Side by Side ATC Podcast by Tom Hanes

Episode notes

Segment 1: Understanding the Academy Structure and Expectations

  • Overview of the FAA Academy:
    • The curriculum, phases, and training environment.
    • Types of evaluations (academic tests, simulations, etc.).
  • What the Academy expects from students:
    • The importance of discipline, focus, and quick learning.
    • Key areas of study: airspace structure, aircraft performance, communication protocols, and decision-making.
  • Why proper preparation matters:
    • Understanding the high attrition rates.
    • The difference between students who arrive prepared and those who don’t.

Segment 2: Academic Preparation

  • Familiarizing yourself with key subjects:
    • Basic air traffic control concepts (airspace, flight paths, aircraft separation).
    • Terminolo ... 
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