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Take Your Kid To Work Day

The latest "were all gonna die" coverage of aviation occurred in early March as the general media uncovered an audio recording of a youngster appearing to issue takeoff clearances to airliners at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). On the February 16 recording, JFK tower controller Glenn Duffys nine-year-old son relays takeoff clearances to departing traffic. (Use this link to listen to the recording: http://bit.ly/ccblJD.)

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Key Takeaways:

  • A JFK air traffic controller allowed his 9-year-old son to issue takeoff clearances, leading to the controller's suspension and strong condemnation from media and officials like the Secretary of Transportation.
  • Despite the official outrage, pilots on the frequency largely enjoyed the diversion, and the article asserts that aviation safety was not compromised due to the robust ATC system and professional oversight.
  • The author critiques the public and official reaction as an overreaction rooted in a lack of understanding of air traffic control, downplaying the inherent safety and professionalism within the aviation system.
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The latest “were all gonna die” coverage of aviation occurred in early March as the general media uncovered an audio recording of a youngster appearing to issue takeoff clearances to airliners at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). On the February 16 recording, JFK tower controller Glenn Duffys nine-year-old son relays takeoff clearances to departing traffic. (Use this link to listen to the recording: http://bit.ly/ccblJD.)

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