The Nation - News from Jan. 7, 1986

Federal Aviation Administration officials, conceding that many current air traffic controllers are less familiar with the mechanics of flying than their predecessors, announced a “fly-a-controller” program that seeks to familiarize controllers with the special problems of private airplanes. Private plane owners will take to the skies with controllers aboard in an effort to show them firsthand “what operating in an air traffic control environment is all about,” said John L. Baker, president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Assn. He said controllers often are unaware of the limitations of small planes in speed and climbing ability. He said the pilots, in turn, need to know more about traffic control procedures as well.