'Well done!' - Blackpool Airport praises staff member with air traffic controller career dreams
“No two days are ever the same.”
Blackpool Airport has congratulated a member of its air traffic control team after he qualified as an Air Traffic Services Assistant (ATSA), marking an important milestone towards his ambition of becoming an air traffic controller.
Mack, who joined the team in April 2026, has successfully completed six months of training to gain his qualification, with the airport celebrating his achievement and highlighting the different routes into a career in aviation.
Blackpool Airport said: “A huge well done to Mack, who has successfully completed his training to become a qualified Air Traffic Services Assistant (ATSA) here at Blackpool Airport!”
Mack’s role involves a range of responsibilities to support the airport’s air traffic control operations, including runway and lighting checks, radio communications, weather observations and preparing flight information for controllers.
Speaking about what he enjoys most, Mack highlighted the variety of the work, the people around him and the aircraft that pass through the airport. Blackpool Airport said he loves that “no two days are ever the same”, with the opportunity to see planes and helicopters and experience the atmosphere of a busy air traffic control office among the highlights of the job.
His first Blackpool Air Show this year was a particular highlight, and he says he is already looking forward to the next event.
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From college to aviation
Before joining Blackpool Airport, Mack studied at Runshaw College, worked as a lifeguard and gained experience as a Boeing 747 simulator instructor at Barton Aerodrome. He knew university was not the right route for him, instead building experience through practical work and training before securing his role at the airport.
His journey highlights the different ways people can develop the skills and experience needed to pursue a career in aviation. One of the biggest challenges during his ATSA training was learning the many aviation acronyms and mastering the spelling of Welsh private airfield names. He was supported throughout the process by the guidance and experience of the airport’s team.
Asked what advice he would give to anyone considering a future in aviation, Mack had a straightforward message: "Do it! It is very interesting, rewarding and never a dull day."
Having now qualified as an Air Traffic Services Assistant, Mack is looking forward to developing his experience in the role, with his sights firmly set on becoming an air traffic controller in the future. Blackpool Airport congratulated Mack on his achievement, marking the latest step in his aviation career and his ambition to progress within the industry.