Column Opinion

Enough Already: Quit Playing Around on Guard

Former air traffic controller explains the risks of using the guard frequency unnecessarily.

Jason Judy

Thursday, January 01, 2026 at 10:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Ryan Ewing

Air traffic controllers [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

I retired from a 26-year career as an air traffic controller (ATC) in September 2023. I didn’t even take a day off before starting my new career as a Part 91 corporate pilot. I was so excited to get out of the dark control room and go enjoy the views. I was definitely going to miss the intensity of doing ATC every day, but I was ready for the change.

Since then, I have had countless people ask if I had always wanted to be a pilot and finally fulfilled my dream.

Jason Judy

Jason Judy spent 26 years as an FAA air traffic controller before transitioning to corporate aviation, where he now flies Part 91 operations in light jets and turboprops. He holds a commercial multi-engine pilot certificate and has flown since age 15. His dual background in ATC and cockpit operations informs his focus on safety and professionalism.