Air Traffic Controllers Must Embrace Duty to Speak Up

ATC offers perspective on flight safety and communications.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

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After witnessing a rough landing, the author—an air traffic controller—alerted the FBO out of concern. The incident underscores a simple but important lesson: when something doesn't seem right, speaking up may help prevent a tragedy. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

An air traffic controller witnesses a harsh "pancaking" landing of a PA-28 Cherokee, leading him to unofficially notify the FBO due to concerns about unreported damage after the pilot failed to mention the incident.
Despite the controller's warning, the FBO's inspection was apparently insufficient, as days later the same aircraft, with a different pilot, experienced a mid-air emergency when its landing gear completely separated after takeoff.
The controller expertly managed the in-flight emergency, guiding the pilot to a successful two-wheeled landing after the detached wheel fell safely, preventing a potentially catastrophic outcome.
The experience underscores the critical importance of pilots reporting aircraft incidents and maintenance facilities conducting thorough inspections, stressing that over-communicating safety concerns is vital.

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As the previous arrival clears the runway, I transmit, “November 11 Alpha, cleared for the option” per his request. I’m moderately busy at the local control (Tower) position with several VFR aircraft doing pattern work interspersed with occasional itinerant arrivals and departures.

I work the VFR traffic around the IFR arrivals and into the flow. It’s a sunny spring afternoon, a good day for flying. I focus on the arrival, making sure all looks well with the aircraft, and double-check the runway and departure path as he approaches for what I expect to be a touch-and-go or stop-and-go.