Upgrades for airmen learning air traffic control at Keesler

Airmen in Keesler’s air traffic control classes now have 24/7 access to simulators.

Utilizing the latest in computer technology, these simulators are able to offer the same level of training on a desktop sized system that previously required a room size simulator.

The class is just five days away from testing up to the final portion of their 70-day course. Luckily for these students, they had the option to practice outside of the classroom. The base installed simulators in their dorm.

Before, students weren’t able to really practice after leaving the classroom. Now, they can replicate the speed, movement, and realistic qualities of the simulators used in the classroom when they go back to the dorm. Air Traffic Control Instructor Supervisor Master Sgt. Joshua Kimball said, “So, they have the smaller dorm assembly. It’s essentially a miniature version of our big sim they use when they get here. So, they start out on the big sim. We have one located here in our building that we train them. In the dorms, they have four that they’re able to use 24/7.”

Keesler trains about 500 air traffic controllers annually.