What gets YOUR vote as the greatest innovation in the history of air traffic control? – NATS Blog

Over the past five weeks, we’ve heard about the best and most brilliant innovations in air traffic control history.

From radio in the 1920’s, radar and flight data processing right up to real-time satellite surveillance and digital towers, which are revolutionising ATC today, which one do you think has been the most transformative and the greatest?

We’ve had a lot of feedback and comments from colleagues in the industry, aviation geeks, spotters and enthusiasts, everyone is keen to offer their views:

“Although radio is still an indispensable tool in the provision of ATC, the advent of radar was, in my opinion, the greatest innovation in air traffic control in the last 100 years, allowing to increase flight safety and facilitate air navigation for pilots and air traffic controllers in order to make it possible to shorten distances, decrease flight time, fuel economy, less impact on the environment and user satisfaction.”

“Totally agree and we’re hugely proud to say we were there at the start as an early adopter and innovator in this field…”

Bytron Aviation Systems

But what do you think? Take our poll and send us your feedback so we can decide on the winner – the greatest air traffic control innovation of the past 100 years. Maybe your favourite isn’t even listed here. If not, let us know!