Photo By Tech. Sgt. Juan Paz | Airmen of the North Carolina Joint Force Task Force set up and support operations at...... read more read more
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RUTHERFORDTON, N.C. — The North Carolina Air National Guard’s 235th Air Traffic Control Squadron (ATCS) has been activated as part of Joint Task Force-North Carolina (JTF-NC) to support relief efforts in response to Helene. For the first time in the squadron's history, the 235th has mobilized within the state to set-up and man a mobile air traffic control tower at Rutherford County Airport, which has seen a 200-300% increase in air traffic.
Rutherford County Airport typically operates without air traffic controllers, but with the influx of civilian and military aircraft delivering relief supplies, the need for coordination has grown critical. The 235th’s mobile tower ensures safe operations in and out of the airfield, preventing conflicts and potential accidents as aircraft approach the airport from different directions.
“Air traffic is coming from the east and south and, with only one runway, we’re here to prevent conflicts where both aircraft are arriving too close to each other,” said U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Alnaldo Espaillat, an air traffic controller with the 235th ATCS in Stanley County. “Our job is to ensure they stay separated—whether landing, taking off, or maneuvering close to the runway.”
The most dangerous part of airfield operations is ensuring aircraft departing and arriving remain safely apart. Without proper coordination, planes could risk landing too closely or even colliding on the runway. The 235th’s air traffic controllers are trained to deploy and handle high-traffic situations like this rapidly.
“Our job is to be ready to deploy quickly and keep air operations safe,” Espaillat added. “We’ve prepared for this through annual training, and now we’re putting those skills into action.”
The mobile tower allows the 235th to provide vital real-time communication, letting pilots know when it’s safe to land or take off and ensuring aircraft avoid each other during these crucial moments. This coordination is essential as military helicopters and supply planes continue to deliver life-saving aid, including water, MREs, and medical supplies, to remote areas impacted by Helene.
The activation of the 235th shows how important the National Guard is in helping during emergencies. Their quick response and skills in managing air traffic during busy times prove they are ready to support communities when they need it most.
| Date Taken: | 10.09.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 11.03.2024 07:23 |
| Story ID: | 484338 |
| Location: | NORTH CAROLINA, US |
| Web Views: | 137 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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