Flying Without Air Traffic Control? Let’s Talk About It.

Dear CalAir Team,

We’ve all seen the headlines:

“Air traffic control shortages add to U.S. flight delays”

“Burbank Airport air traffic control tower goes unmanned for hours amid government shutdown”

“Shutdown adding ‘ripple effect’ to air traffic controller shortage”

But what does that mean for you?

With fewer air traffic controllers and rising uncertainty, more airports are operating without tower services, and it’s interesting to see commercial pilots going back to Flying 101 by using common traffic frequencies to coordinate and safely navigate flying in and out of airports.

Luckily, this is part of your training at CalAir from day one. Private Pilot License (PPL) students learn how to operate safely in both controlled and uncontrolled airspace. And for those of you who haven’t practiced it in a while, it might be time to freshen up. It’s also a good reminder to keep your training and proficiencies up to date.

If it’s been a while since you’ve done it, book a flight with your instructor to practice at an uncontrolled airport or flight path. The skies are changing. The best way to maintain your freedom to fly is to stay sharp and current.

Fly with Confidence,
Your CalAir Team