Ambient recording
 

It's coming. For NATS, at least. Does anybody actually think it will improve safety?

Tell us what it is, and we'll let you know. I have a rough idea what you mean.

Will it improve safety? Doubt it.

Will it improve staff disciplinaries? Absolutely.

Great fun. Yonks ago they introduced a system at Heathrow where we had to input our initials on intercom when we took over a position. Everyone used the same initials - those of a senior manager.

When we changed to NODE equipment in the early 1990s, it was rumoured that the headsets were 'live' all the time, and that systems/management could listen in at any time, should they so wish.
Whether it was true, I don't know, but it wouldn't be difficult to have recorded it on a separate channel.
Will there be a requirement for ambient mikes on the supervisor's desks too? Those who man them play key parts in most ATC incidents.

As I understand it (and I may be incorrect), it is an ICAO requirement and a CAA recommendation in CAP 670. If you were introducing new VCCS equipment, you'd probably need a good reason for not specifying it.

Weeing headsets, what will they think of next?

The requirement for ambient recording is out for consultation on the EASA Part-ATS NPA right now.

I'm aware of NATS response to this and I wouldn't be too sure, 247.

Our Veristore ambient recording came into operation in 2015. People still forget it's on though. The kit also records the radar as seen on the screen.

At the old Gatwick tower as long ago as '68 the Sup could discreetly listen into just about any comms from the Sup's desk, so it was preferable to remove one's headset when slagging him off.

So, in other words, non conforming...

They've had live mic recording in Jersey since December 2010, still only available as part of incident investigation. Made for some amusing playbacks though….

Even this thread shows there are several interpretations of the phrase 'ambient recording'.

I take it to mean a system that would pick up every sound in the ops room, whether on mic or not.

Just as on the CVR.