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27 approaches in the area when they experienced a fire in the cabin and appeared to be losing altitude. Without skipping a beat, Schawinsky gave the pilot information regarding the closest airport and prominent obstructions in the area. Fortunately, the pilot was able to extinguish the fire and regain control of the aircraft. After initially requesting to go to La Porte Municipal Airport (T41), Schawinsky advised that they go to Galveston, where the weather was better, and attempt a visual approach. He read the weather to both aircraft, starting with N1221U. Both emergency aircraft were then successfully vectored to Galveston for visual approaches. "I generally transmit at a much quicker cadence on the radio, but once I realized N1221U was under distress, I began to speak very slowly, plainly, and calmly to him," Schawinsky said. "I did not want to alert to the pilot that I also felt that his situation was as dire as he might have felt it was. I wanted to make him feel as comfortable as possible. "N1221U was very hesitant entering the clouds. So I allowed him to stay just above the cloud layer en route to GLS to keep him more comfortable. I got him lined up exactly where I wanted him to be before descending him down into and through the clouds as late as I could to avoid any turns in IFR conditions and minimize his time in IFR flight, getting him to the bases as quickly as possible." Schawinsky's expertise, calm demeanor, attention to detail, and professionalism throughout the events were exemplary. His performance may have saved several lives that day. So often, maintaining composure is the most critical aspect of our job when encountering pilots in distress. On this day, our brother Michael Schawinsky provided a measured and positive connection to two pilots in need, and guided the six souls on board those aircraft to safe landings. It is this type of performance that makes us all proud to be air traffic controllers. » Southwest Regional Vice President Andrew LeBovidge:

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