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ArchieAwards 2024_Final

A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association

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7 e sun had set at Anchorage International Airport (ANC) on Feb. 1, 2024, with record-breaking snow accumulation for the year. Controller Wayne Harper was working the local and Lake Hood control positions. e airport was landing both parallel runways, 7R and 7L. FDX9051, a McDonnell Douglas MD- 11, had just landed on Runway 7R. Wayne instructed FDX9051 to "turn le at TWY G and hold short of 7L", a routine operation in this con guration. e pilot read back the instruction correctly. Meanwhile, NAC2731, a Boeing 737, was on nal for Runway 7L and quickly approaching the threshold. As FDX9051 exited Runway 7R, Wayne noticed that the position of FDX9051 looked strange for an aircra holding short of Runway 7L. e crew of FDX9051 became disoriented with snow partially obscuring the runway lights, signs, and markings. e plane continued across the hold lines of Runway 7L. As soon as FDX9051 keyed up to verify the instruction, Wayne identi ed the uncertainty in the pilot's voice. Wayne quickly pivoted to review the Airport Surface Surveillance Capability (ASSC) display and verify the position of both aircra . He maintained his composure as he took quick action to clearly and concisely issue a go-around to NAC2731, who was now less than 1,000 feet from the Runway 7L threshold and less than 3,500 feet from FDX9051. Wayne's vigilance and quick action lead to a safe resolution, preventing a potential catastrophe. "It happened really quickly," Wayne observed. He attributes his successful scan to his training, stating, "my training team really emphasized the scan, and I think that's what saved the situation for me. I think while the ASSC would have gone o , I don't know if it would have gone o in time to issue the go-around." Wri en by Amanda Clinefelter (Anchorage ATCT, ANC) Wayne Harper Anchorage ATCT ANC Congratulations to the 2024 Alaskan Region, Archie League Medal of Safety Award Winner, Wayne Harper! Wri en by Amanda Clinefelter (Anchorage ATCT, ANC) ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION ALASKAN REGION

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