Originally Posted by
Apple Tree Yard
With the odd notable exception, I sadly have to agree with that description. Most of them need to be seconded to LHR ATC for 6 months to obtain an understanding of how professionals do that job (and to learn a few manners).
LHR doesn't even fall into the top 10 busiest airports in terms of aircraft movements. On the other hand, 7 of the top 8 busiest are U.S. airports (Beijing ranking #5). So what will the those "amateur" 3rd-wordly controllers at ATL, ORD, LAX, DFW, DIA, CLT, LAS learn from the steely eyed-yet-oh-so-courteous Supercontrollers at LHR (when they're not yawning)? More importantly, after 6 the months, will they be issued a cape?