IAA ATCO Licence Theory case studies
IAA ATCO Licence Theory · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The IAA ATCO Licence Theory examination is the theoretical knowledge assessment that aspiring air traffic controllers in Ireland must satisfy as part of the licensing process administered by the Irish Aviation Authority. It is aimed at trainee controllers working toward a student or controller licence, and it tests the academic foundation that underpins safe operational practice rather than hands-on console skill. The IAA ATCO Licence Theory case studies are 5 cases and about 2,913 words.
1Drone near-miss on final: safety, reporting and evidence
At 14:22 UTC, Skyline 412, a Boeing 737 on a 3 NM final to Runway 24 at a regional Irish airport, reports: 'Skyline 412, a black drone passed about 100 feet below and left of us; we are continuing.' The airport lies in Class C airspace. The drone was not notified to ATC.
629 words, about 3 min2Runway closure, a low-fuel light twin and a HEMS priority request
At 07:05 UTC, Approach Control at a single-runway airport is working nine arrivals in the next 20 minutes. Runway 09/27 is closed for a FOD inspection after a tyre burst; the airport operator expects 15 minutes.
640 words, about 3 min3Gust front and wind shear on final: go-around and runway change
At 16:10 local, a line of thunderstorms lies 8 NM west of the airport, moving east at 25 kt. The ATIS gives wind 210/08 kt, but the threshold anemometer now shows 290/25G40 kt.
581 words, about 3 min4GNSS jamming during an RNAV approach
An Embraer 175 is established on the RNAV (GNSS) Runway 24 approach at a regional airport, 6 NM final, cleared to land. LNAV minima are 520 ft; the reported ceiling is 700 ft with 3 km visibility.
537 words, about 3 min5Rapid depressurisation at FL360 with opposite-direction traffic
At 03:40 local you are the sole controller on a combined area/approach sector; your assistant is on a 20-minute break. A Boeing 737 at FL360, 25 NM ahead of your boundary, reports 'rapid depressurisation, emergency descent to FL100'.
526 words, about 3 min