GAPAN (GYM) at Swanwick

In mid February, 16 lucky GAPAN members were offered the chance to visit the NATS Air Traffic Control Centre at Swanwick, near Southampton. The group was further reduced into manageable sizes of eight, with two sessions being organised – an afternoon and morning session.

Entering through the gates, the sheer size of the building is apparent. The modern design and surrounding landscaping makes it a very pleasant place to work and visit. After parking in the main car park, we headed into the main entrance to meet Mr David Durnford, our guide for the visit. The trip began with a presentation in the viewing gallery. Here Dave explained the intricacies of the UK air traffic system, including secorisation and responsibilities as well as ample statistics showing the sheer volume of traffic that is handled in UK air space. Dave was also keen to draw out the marked changes from the old centre at West Drayton and the new location at Swanwick. Nowadays most of the systems and procedures are electronic. This was especially apparent in sector to sector coordination and through the reduced use of paper flight strips.

With the presentation complete, the shutters were opened and we could see the modern workplace of ‘London Control’. The sectors were logically laid out and it was clear to see which sector was where through the sector numbers located on the top of the consoles.

It was now time to visit two operational units – Distress and Diversion (D&D) and London Information. Spitting the group further in half allowed an even closer look at each of the units. Distress and Diversion cell was a particularly important visit. It was interesting to see what happens on the other side of the scope if someone were to make a Mayday or Pan Call. The level of triangulation and accuracy in the Greater London area was incredible and was well above what I expected. OC D&D was very keen to emphasise the use of the service for training reasons. He noted that regular practice will keep both pilots and controllers at the top of their game so should a real need to use the service arise, both parties will be better informed, which could be the difference between a slight reduction in pride or a life threatening situation.

Moving onto London Information we entered the main control hall. Given that it was a rainy day in winter, only one controller was on the position and during our visit, only three aircraft called the frequency. Nevertheless, the position was well explained showing the various services and functions available to pilots using the service. Once again it was emphasised that London Information controllers only know as much as you tell them and as such, the more information that can be provided in a position report, the better the service will be.

Both groups remerged in the entrance after their respective visits and the trip was concluded. I would like to thank Sqn. Ldr. Ford for organising the trip and to Dave Durnford for showing us around. It was a magnificent opportunity and I look forward to future visits with GAPAN.

Thomas Curtress
GAPAN PPL Scholar 2009
Gapan Young Member.