ATC Ratings

Our ATC rating structure is detailed in the table below and outlines the basic standards that our controllers are trained to meet in each control position.

The rating system is designed to provide FSopen pilots with a consistent degree of ATC service in accordance with the criteria set out below and controllers will be assessed at the appropriate level before progressing to the next rating.

If you wish to join the FSopen ATC program please register your interest by emailing paulhumphries@fsopen.co.uk or contact a member of the ATC Team in teamspeak.

Rating	Validated	Training Position	Requirements
Basic Student	-	-	No requirements - any member can express ATC interest
Ground Student	-	Ground	Adequately Operate with flightstrips, ATCA and UK Airport Charts Able to obtain METAR Understand the difference between Height, Altitude and Flight Levels
Aerodrome Student	-	Ground Tower	Correctly interpret weather and aerodrome information provided by ATCA/METAR Correctly Interpret Aerodrome/Parking Charts Correctly Record ATIS Gives competant Clearances & Pushback and Taxi Instructions Handles VFR traffic with pre-flight information Manage simultaneous arrivals and departures
Aerodrome Controller ATCO4	Ground Tower	Radar	Manage VFR Circuit Traffic, Inbounds and Outbounds Manage simultaneous arrivals and departures Timely transfer of Control Maintain safe, orderly flow of traffic and integrate IFR with VFR Demonstrate ability to bandbox with Ground Control Uses correct phraseology
Radar Controller ATCO 3	Ground Tower Radar	Control	Demonstrate knowledge of ATC services available Maintains appropriate lateral and vertical separation in accordance with service being provided Effective handling of SIDS and STARS Effective vectoring skills (including appropriate use of speed control) Effective at handling multiple tracks Effective handling of IFR and VFR approaches Timely transfer of Control Uses correct phraseology
Senior Controller ATCO 2	Ground Tower Radar Control	-	Effective solo operation of single aerodrome ATC task Effective operation of multiple aerodrome task Uses correct phraseology Demonstrates commitment to FSOpen ATC
ATC Examiner ATCO 1	Ground Tower Radar Control Evaluations	-	Detailed understanding of ATC techniques and procedures Provides objective and impartial evaluation advice and reporting By selection