How do controllers train for unusual situations?

In tomorrow’s episode of BBC 2’s ‘Skies Above Britain’ you will see how crucial training is for air traffic controllers to ensure they keep the skies safe.

The TV programme will show some of the unique training that NATS controllers receive each year. Called ‘TRUCE’, Training for Unusual Circumstances and Emergencies, the sessions simulate how controllers should safely manage various situations that may occur in our busy skies.

Flying is still one of the safest forms of travel – so safe that year on year many controllers will never need to put their emergency training into practice – but in the unusual event that something does happen, our controllers have the skills to act quickly and handle all situations safely.

So we thought we’d take you behind the scenes to where TRUCE sessions take place and show you how these skills are practiced.