A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association
Issue link: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/1539587
12 On Feb. 14, 2025, Chicago Center (ZAU) controller Trenton Henison was training developmental controller Robert Hatley on managing the airspace covering southeast Illinois and southwest Indiana. As part of their routine operations, they were working a familiar aircraft, a Piper Seneca (N8443L), which was conducting regular air sampling maneuvers in their sector. Initially, everything seemed standard. However, the situation quickly began to shift in an unexpected and concerning direction. While observing the flight, Trenton and Robert noticed the aircraft starting to climb above its assigned altitude. In addition to the altitude deviation, the aircraft's flight path appeared erratic and its behavior in the air was unusual. Robert began trying to re-establish communication with the pilot. He made multiple attempts on several frequencies and general broadcasts but received no response. The radio silence was highly irregular and prompted immediate concern. As the minutes passed, N8443L's ground speed and altitude continued to fluctuate inconsistently, a sign the pilot might be experiencing difficulties. Although the controllers were unable to communicate directly with the aircraft, Trenton and Robert took swift and deliberate action. Working together, they coordinated with surrounding air traffic control facilities and adjacent sectors to create a protective block of airspace around the Piper Seneca. Their goal was to maintain a safe buffer to avoid potential conflicts, safeguarding both N8443L and other aircraft operating nearby. For the next 10 minutes, despite repeated efforts, there was still no radio contact. Finally, Trenton managed to make contact with the aircraft, but the pilot's transmissions were garbled and confused. It quickly became clear that the pilot was disoriented, and Trenton recognized the possible symptoms of hypoxia — an oxygen deficiency that can impair judgment and motor skills. GR EAT LAK ES R EGION GR EAT LAK ES R EGION Robert Hatley Chicago Center ZAU Trenton Henison Chicago Center ZAU Wri en by Sarah Simek (Grand Forks ATCT, GFK)