Adam Spink works as an air traffic controller at Heathrow, the busiest 2-runway airport in the world, where he is also an instructor, supervisor, watch training officer and an examiner. He also works in ATC operations, developing new procedures and equipment. Adam represents NATS (National Air Traffic Services) and the UK on the global stage on subjects including low visibility operations, ground radar and GPS navigation systems.

Adam teaches CRM (crew resource management), and sits on the UK Human Factors incident reporting program.

In 2008, Adam played a crucial role in the British Airways flight 38 crash at Heathrow airport. As the control tower supervisor, his quick thinking, preparedness and leadership were vital to the management of the Boeing 777 crash that resulted following sudden loss of power to both engines while on short final approach to the runway.

Adam is the deputy manager of the volunteer ATC team that controls The Royal International Air Tattoo which is the world's largest military air show and attracts over 250 aircraft from 30 countries.

In today's episode we talk to Adam about his journey into the world of ATC, explore its complex high-stress environment and the skill sets required of those who work within it, discuss his team's management of flight BA38, and how he and his colleagues come together once a year to control the world's largest military air show. Adam is a human factors expert and this is packed with information relevant to all who wish to take ordinary to extraordinary.

NATS: https://www.nats.aero

NATS Airspace:

London airspace in 24 hours: https://vimeo.com/1044641389

UK 24: A typical day in UK airspace: https://vimeo.com/1044641237

ATC audio from flight BA38 crash: supplied by Adam Spink, with permission.

ATC audio track marked at: 57min 12sec

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