I don't like where this ATSA/Met Obs issue is going. Sounds like the ATSA boys and girls at EGLL are going to be saddled with a task the effects of which have not been thoroughly researched prior to introduction. I am also (reliably!) informed that there's no comprehensive training plan in the pipeline, and there is the potential for a staffing issue to boot!! A fantastic position to be in prior to introduction of a new piece of kit!
What's the knock-on effect on the EGLL ATCOs if they haven't got an ATSA working alongside? Who's requirement takes precedent - supplying info for the ATCOs, or provision of the Met report? Is PCS looking at this? Is Prospect looking at it? (I very much doubt THAT one!!)
I also note HD's comments about unqualified staff/additional pay. He's quite right - in the absence of a professional qualification/licence, who's going to trust what's going out on the Met broadcast if it is known that those providing it have been prepared for the task in such an amateurish, cheapskate and shoddy manner? And what about the issue of responsibility in the event of an incident which can be attributed to incorrect Met info - will the ATSA involved be personally liable to prosecution?
As for the additional money issue - I fully expect NATS to pay the EGLL ATSAs sweet F*** All for the additional responsibility.
I look forward to hearing from our EGLL colleagues, ATCO and ATSA alike, as to how this situation develops. Sounds like its going to affect you all, one way or the other.
Oh, and by the way, how's the plans for implementation of EFPS in the new Tower going? Have the ATSAs been as deeply involved with this project as they have (!) with the Met issue? I would expect all ATSAs to have to undergo a Practical First Aid course - just to be legally able to dispense the paracetamol in vast quantities to all the brain f***ed ATCOs who will be dropping like flies on their all-singing, all-dancing EFPS consoles!!
I hope the powers-that-be at the "Tower of London" have had the good sense and foresight to look at the potential problems that may arise with the introduction of new technology in their new glasshouse. I also hope they've had the common sense to sort out some possible resolutions to these issues BEFORE the !!!!! eventually hits the fan - because, one day, it most certainly will!
In the light of last week's news report on the dangers of control of aircraft on the ground, this lot has the makings of a good BBC documentary, methinks!