A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association
Issue link: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/1478079
25 "Dan, Matthew, Eric, Colby, and Tyler's actions and teamwork on Feb. 15 were nothing short of heroic. This event is a reminder that our members are constantly working to ensure that our National Airspace System is safe and efficient. Their actions represent the calm professionalism, skill, and training that is a hallmark of all air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals and ensured that Bonanza N77FH had a safe outcome." – Joel Ortiz, Western Pacific Regional Vice President The pilot checked in descending through 8,000 feet, direct to Boulder City Airport. Hauptman and Alford verified the intentions of N77FH, issued the Las Vegas altimeter and continued his descent along with a vector to Boulder City Airport. Within seconds, N77FH turned sharply right of course raising Hauptman and Alford's concern. At this point, Hauptman took over as the instructor recognizing something was wrong and he verified the assigned heading to N77FH, the pilot acknowledged, apologized, and turned back on course. During this time N77FH encountered IFR conditions, lost control of the aircraft and became inverted, regained control, lost engine power, restarted the engine, regained control, and navigated on course with the help of Hauptman's calm voice. Hauptman helped N77FH continue to Boulder City Airport but now the pilot was unable to see the airport due to his altitude and cloud cover below him. The team of Joe and others in the control room started using all their tools including additional aircraft on their frequencies to help get the lights turned on at Boulder City Airport since it is a non-controlled airport. As work was done to get the lights turned on, Hauptman continued to provide landing information and instructions until the pilot was able to locate the airport and land safely.