Flight Information Officer: job description and training

Job Description

Instead of air traffic control services, eight of Finland’s 25 airports provide a flight information service. A flight information officer is responsible for this service at these so-called AFIS airports (AFIS = Aerodrome Flight Information Service). The difference is that whereas air traffic control airports actually regulate the traffic and radiotelephone messages are often in the form of commands, aircraft at AFIS airports and surrounding airports are supplied with information. This will include traffic reports, i.e. reports on other aircraft, their position and intentions. On receipt of these traffic reports the pilot must take account of the traffic mentioned and must report his or her own intentions. The flight information officer watches the situation and provides reports whenever necessary. In terms of the equipment used and the aircraft involved the procedures are the same as for an air traffic control airport. This kind of air traffic service is in use at airports where traffic volumes are lower than air traffic control airports.

Training

The flight information officer’s training lasts about nine months. The training starts with the same basic theory course as for air traffic controllers. After this, the student begins a five week specialist course which includes AFIS theory, aircraft search and rescue theory as well as simulator and map reading practice. Finally, students must undertake at least one month of practical training at an AFIS airport under the supervision of an instructor.

Entry Requirements and Applications

The entry requirements and application procedures for flight information officer training are the same as for the air traffic controllers’ course. Courses are organized when required.

For further information contact Training Assistant Tommi Sundqvist, tel. +358 9 8277 2021.