WMAQ - TV Chicago
KSHB - TV Kansas City (example of an NBC outlet running a story that
also ran nationwide on NBC outle ts)
KMBC - TV Kansas City (example of an ABC outlet running a story that
also ran on other ABC outlets
FORBES
Controller Shortage To Increase Airline Costs, Delays, Fares
NATCA mentioned, our staffing graphic included
ATLANTA JOURNAL - CONSTITUTION
Federal audit raises questions about Atlanta air traffic control staffing
NATCA President Paul Rinaldi included, quoted
WSB - TV ATLANTA
Atlanta TRACON understaffed, report says
A80 NATCA FacRep Mike Ryan quoted on air
KTRH RADIO HOUSTON
Houston Face s Controller Shortage
NATCA Spokesman Doug Church quoted
FOX NEWS CHANNEL
On - air discussion about controller staffing shortage
NEWS AND NOTES FROM OUR PUBLIC AFFAIRS SHOP
Sweeps Month is Here (Again): The Communications Department reminds all
reps that February is one of four months throughout the year called " sweeps " in the
television news media business. May, July and November are also designated sweeps
months. D uring sweeps, a company called Nielsen measures the viewership of TV
programming. Those programs that have the most viewership can then charge more
money for advertising during commercial slots. Aviation and ATC are among the many
traditional topics that make for sensationalized stories to dra w viewer interest and thus
boost a news program's or show's ratings. Many stories, if not inaccurate, are
misleading and intentionally focused on directly questioning public safety to get attention .
We can counter this coverage where appropriate with caref ully crafted,
disciplined messaging. To that end, please remember that it is NATCA ' s media policy
that NATCA representatives must refer all media who contact them to our
Communications Department; specifically, Sarah McC ann (315 - 796 - 1560) and Doug
Church (301 - 346 - 8245). If we decide to move forward with a statement or interview, we
will then work directly with the appropriate representative.
After a Houston local TV station ran a story last week that was very unfair,
incomplete, misleading, and sensationalized in reference to aviation safety and old
incidents of separation loss, we sent the reporter this statement:
" Houston air traffic controllers and their colleagues around the countr y are
extremely proud of the great safety record they ensure during every moment of every
shift in a profession in which they show extraordinary, career - long commitment and
dedication. Houston - area air travelers and the millions of passengers around the wo rld
who travel through Houston - area airports and airspace are in the very best, most
capable, and extremely professional hands at all stages of their flights. This is due to the
