A publication of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association
Issue link: http://natca.uberflip.com/i/724722
American Labor movement has led to many of the worker protections and benefits we have today, such as an eight - hour workday, overtime pay , and employee - sponsored health insurance to name a few. At the FAA, we work with our labor partners on numerous safet y, workplace , and modernization efforts. In support of our proactive safety culture, we ' ve developed programs and campaigns such as the Air Traffic Safety Action Program, Recurrent Training, Take a Stand for Safety, Turn Off Tune In , and Fully Charged. We ' re also in the process of developing the RESPECT campaign to establish and maintain an environment of mutual dignity, support , and respect between all individuals that work to protect the NAS. We collaborate on so many modernization efforts such as TAMR, D ata Communications, NAS Voice System , and others. Take Data Communications departure clearance service (DCL), for example. It is a complex program with many moving parts – ERAM, Tower Data Link Services , and the aircraft – that have to be integrated. Since the program began, we've worked closely with three unions – the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, Professional Aviation Safety Specialists , and the National Association of Government Employees. They have helped us to develop user requirements, design, integrate, test , and implement the capability at control towers and en route centers, and conduct post deployment analysis and support. We've now deployed DCL at 41 control towers, and we're 22 months ahead of schedule. We're on track to be operat ional at more than 50 airports in 2016. When issues and challenges arise, we work together to develop solutions that benefit all stakeholders. We'll continue to use this model of partnership as we move toward Data Comm's implementation in the en route phas e. In these ways, and others, our strong and continuous collaboration with labor is helping us to accomplish our mission to ensure the safest, most efficient aerospace system in the world. I want to thank all those who will be working on Labor Day, as well as all of our employees whose skill and dedication continue to make us proud. Thanks, and have a safe and fun holiday weekend! Teri L. Bristol ATO Chief Operating Officer