Darwin Approach controllers were routinely exposed to green (limited data block) radar returns that were generally inconsequential in that Approach control environment, leading to a high level of expectancy that such tracks were not relevant for aircraft separation purposes. Refresher training did not emphasise the importance of scanning the green radar returns.
The ATSB is satisfied that the action taken by the Department of Defence has adequately addressed the safety issue. Controller scanning of green radar returns is covered in the RAAF School of Air Traffic Control initial and approach controller training syllabi and included in the simulator scenarios of DoD air traffic units at all military aerodromes to which civil scheduled services operate.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that the Department of Defence takes further safety action to address the limited provision of regular simulator-based refresher training that emphasises the importance of scanning green radar returns.
As advised in previous correspondence to the ATSB report, Defence has incorporated the scanning of 'green codes' within a number of training outcomes along each controller's training regime. The School of Air Traffic Control (SATC) exercises include significant training on scanning of green codes during initial employment training (IET) and post-IET radar approach control training. All 452SQN and 453SQN flights include the scanning of 'green codes' within their on-the-job training guides, and locations with dedicated simulator capability (Townsville, Darwin, Amberley and Williamtown, as well as Pearce using TAAATS at Perth TCU (noting that TAAATS equivalent of 'green code' is flashing blue and difficult to miss)) continue to include 'green codes' within their practical training packages.
Defence notes that the subject investigation isof one incident of a 'green code' being missed and resulting in a LOS, whereas the reporting evidence indicates that Defence ATC successfully detects 'green codes' on a regular basis and takes appropriate action to prevent safety occurrences. For example, Defence controllers reported 357 Airspace Infringements (AI), including 29 at Darwin, during 2012. The majority of AIs initially present as 'green codes', indicating the competency is business as usual and that the initial and refresher training is adequate.
Attached is the 'Because they rely on us' package. The 'Can you look away' package is a sub-set of 'Because they rely on us'. Huge effort by a number of personnel within the Wing and we are already seeing the 'Can you look away' principles being referred to in LOSA investigations within the Flights. The message has definitely got people talking.
In accordance with Section 25A (2) of the Transport Safety Investigation Act 2003, I hereby advise the ATSB that Defence agrees with the two safety issues as outlined. As a proactive safety organisation, we will continue to implement changes to further enhance safety and reduce the likelihood of a similar occurrence in future.
In particular reference to the recommendations 041 and 042, Air Force has commenced work on a compromised separation recovery training package that will standardise training across all Air Base Air Traffic Service (ABATS) units. This package will include a training video and an annual exam requiring a 100% pass mark. Additionally, ABATS units that have a simulation capability have now included the scanning of green codes in their local training packages.
