In line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s mandate to modernize the nation’s aviation facilities and enhance passenger safety, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) officially inaugurated three new top-of-the-line air traffic control simulators today.
The ₱253-million facility features 360-degree Aerodrome, Approach, and Enroute simulators designed to replicate real-world flight phases and actual control tower environments. The upgrade aligns Philippine training standards with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs), specifically under the Competency-Based Training and Assessment (CBTA) framework.
Transportation Secretary Banoy Lopez highlighted that modernization extends beyond physical infrastructure like terminals and runways to crucial operational systems and human resources.
“This responds directly to the President’s instruction for CAAP to ensure modern, prepared, and safer aviation operations for everyone,” Secretary Lopez said. “Equally important to our infrastructure is modernizing and upgrading our systems.”
Secretary Lopez emphasized the government’s commitment to workforce development through CAAP’s free specialized air traffic training program. Aspiring Air Traffic Management Officers (ATMOs) who hold a four-year degree and pass the requisite aptitude and written examinations receive tuition-free training and guaranteed employment at airports nationwide upon qualification.
CAAP Director General Raul Del Rosario noted that the cutting-edge simulators fulfill a long-standing goal of the Air Traffic Service (ATS). The new system allows trainees to practice complex traffic scenarios and critical decision-making in a controlled, risk-free setting, significantly reducing reliance on live operational traffic for instruction.
Importantly, the advanced equipment will streamline the Comprehensive Air Traffic Service (CATS) Training Program, shortening the course duration from nine months to six.
“This world-class facility ensures we are no longer left behind,” said Director General Del Rosario. “By streamlining our training process, we can address the shortage of air traffic controllers, alleviate personnel fatigue at regional airports, and mitigate the impact of trained personnel leaving for overseas opportunities.”
The enhanced training program will focus on key competencies, including situational awareness, sound decision-making, effective coordination, precise communication, and managing complex traffic environments, ultimately elevating air safety and efficiency across the entire Philippine aviation sector.
