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San Carlos Tower Has An ATC Problem
The repercussions of contracted controllers being overworked and underpaid seem to be spilling onto the radio waves, and is a sign of a bigger problem with the system. (www.gatechecked.com) Más...Sort type: [Top] [Newest]
I'm based at SQL, and saying it has an ATC problem is an understatement. I can't understand why this is a contract tower, (read... lowest bidder), considering the volume of traffic it has. It's been understaffed for some time now and at points has reduced hours and denied any pattern work. I've been told that SQL not considered a GA airport, but a commercial airport due to all the 135 operations. The FAA will finally realize there is a problem when there is an accident, which, if past performance is an indication, I believe is inevitable. As a side note, SQL is closed for runway and taxiway improvements and won't reopen until October 11th.
Does PAO have the same kind of problems as SQL? What about HWD, RHV, and lots of other GA-heavy, training oriented D airports? Why is SQL seemingly so afflicted?
After flying out of SQL for many years, I can say that this appears to be an isolated controller incident. As the article states, lots of students do pattern work there, and that is where I did my training and solo. The controllers were always polite and patient. The only thing a controller said to me one time was "keep up your speed little buddy" as my C-150 was in front of a twin about to turn final as I was coming in to land. :)
We used to have an excellent tower. They had patience and a sense of humor. I personally have not found out to be the case for at least the past year or so.
Wasn’t this the airport that Ellison wanted so he fly his plane in and out as he pleased? My memory is faulty.
No. That was SJC.
Personally, I would terminate the employment of this controller he appears to be an accident waiting to happen. Attitudes don't belong in the tower, or in the Air.