Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has introduced the first Air Traffic Control (ATC) Tower Simulator in the Maldives. Deputy Chief Officer of MACL Ibrahim Thoha introduced the simulator at a special ceremony.
The ATC Tower Simulator was introduced to solve the issue of the lack of skilled workers in the aviation sector. Air traffic controllers in the Maldives are hired after they receive the necessary technical training. MACL stated the simulator is equipped with the latest technology and will provide much-needed training for ATC officers. Trainees will be able to observe a simulation of the ATC tower in a 50-mile radius using the new system, with 3D images and flight movements.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Chief Office Thoha said the improvements made to ATC training will have a significant positive impact on the entire aviation sector. He noted that the simulator is worth USD 259,000 and is expected to minimise the cost of training air traffic controllers abroad each year.
Also at the ceremony, General Manager of Air Traffic Services Ibrahim Hameed said efforts to improve ATC training began in 2019 and that the newly introduced simulator is the latest version of the technology. He expressed hope MACL will become renowned for conducting the best ATC training in the region with the addition of the simulator.
MACL is currently operating ATC officers in 17 airports in the Maldives.