Level 12 Tracon vs. Level 12 Center

jarhead0863 · Posted: 02-13-2010, 05:35 PM

Sticking to the radar side of things, how does a level 12 Tracon compare to a level 12 Center? I can imagine they are two completely different environments and everyone will say one is better or tougher than the other. What are your guys opinions for those that have worked either, or maybe both? I know I will probably get bashed for saying this, but IMO I would think that working at a place like A80, C90, or N90 would be more difficult then ZTL, ZAU, or ZNY. But what do I know, I am just a CTI. So lets hear what you guys have to say!

atcguruaf · Posted: 02-13-2010, 05:45 PM

all I know is that NEITHER compares to even a level 8 tower... it's sooooo easy to work in a TRACON and even EASIER to work in a center....

okay, I'm ready...let em fly.. haha

noid · Posted: 02-13-2010, 05:48 PM

They each have their own pros/cons. TRACON's like A80 have to deal with jumbled airspace, running a tight approach into ATL with other sectors dealing with all of the other airports underneath the Class B, which by the way, has an even worse airspace layout.

Center's are a completely different animal. 5mi separation, but they are going a lot faster. The ultra-high sectors seem easy, but they have their own unique challenges. Working the flow into places like ATL and CLT can get insane while trying to keep in-trail spacing or creating holes for flow control.

Center's are definitely more prepared to teach new hires.

jarhead0863 · Posted: 02-13-2010, 06:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by noid

Center's are definitely more prepared to teach new hires.

Not sure where, but on this site I heard someone say that it seemed like Center's were talking more new controllers rather than terminal facilities taking them. I wouldn't mind being at a center, working the scopes are fun.

DanielEtvs · Posted: 02-13-2010, 07:15 PM

centers take 3 years to get certified.... tracon can take just one year. im not saying that makes center tougher.... but there certainly is much MORE to learn.... while at a TRACON things are more compressed and moving "faster"