CAPTAIN JOE meets KENNEDY STEVE - The interview!

Interview with Kennedy Steve: Insights from an Air Traffic Controller

Introduction to the Interview

• The host welcomes viewers from JFK Airport, excited about interviewing renowned air traffic controller Kennedy Steve.

• After a previous video hinting at the interview, the host received a response from Steve, leading to today's meeting.

Career Beginnings and Experience

• Kennedy Steve began his career in air traffic control (ATC) in the early 1990s, specifically starting at Teterboro Airport in New Jersey.

• He transitioned to JFK in 1994 and has worked all positions within ATC, including ground delivery and tower operations.

• To be certified as a professional controller, one must work every position without a trainer; this is essential for operational efficiency.

Daily Operations and Challenges

• Controllers typically work each position for about 60 to 75 minutes before taking breaks due to the high-stress environment.

• Ground control is highlighted as particularly dynamic and enjoyable by Steve, who appreciates its unpredictability.

Airport Layout and Efficiency

• The geometry of older airports like JFK presents challenges compared to newer designs that facilitate better traffic flow.

• JFK was designed in the 1950s for smaller aircraft; modern jets like A380 pose significant operational challenges due to outdated layouts.

Unique Experiences with Aircraft

• Working with unique aircraft such as the Concorde presented specific challenges due to its speed and noise levels during landing.

• An anecdote illustrates how trainees initially find working with the Concorde exciting but soon realize its complexities.

Handling Emergencies

• Routine emergencies occur frequently at JFK; controllers must remain vigilant during operations.

• A specific incident involving an Aragon flight highlights critical decision-making moments when dealing with potential runway conflicts.

Air Traffic Control Insights and Anecdotes

Experiences with Airplanes and Pilots

• The speaker shares an anecdote about a flight departing Indonesia, highlighting the unexpected challenges of rapid climbs in powerful airplanes with low fuel.

• A famous interaction with a Lufthansa pilot is recalled, where an open access panel was noted while taxiing, leading to humorous speculation about how it could be closed.

• The speaker reflects on the limitations of their role as an air traffic controller (ATC), expressing concern for safety but acknowledging the inability to intervene directly from their position.

Favorite Airlines and Aircraft

• Discussion shifts to preferences among airlines; the speaker mentions that Middle Eastern airlines tend to take operations too seriously compared to others.

• The Boeing 757 is identified as a favorite aircraft due to its excellent performance characteristics, including climbing ability and maneuverability.

• A humorous description of the Airbus A340 is shared, likening it to "four hair dryers under the wing," showcasing a light-hearted perspective on aircraft design.

Reflections on Significant Events

• The speaker recounts personal memories of September 11th, noting the eerie silence in the skies during that day and recalling military jets flying over New York later in the afternoon.

• Mention of Kennedy Steve's motion sickness adds a personal touch, illustrating challenges faced by pilots who may struggle with turbulence.

Humor in Air Traffic Control

• An entertaining ATC joke involving Air India highlights the humor found within stressful situations in aviation communication.

• The conversation touches upon favorite aviation movies; while "Airplane!" is appreciated for its slapstick humor, "Pushing Tin" is critiqued for its portrayal of ATC interactions.

Professional Conduct and Communication

• The speaker clarifies that they never faced reprimands for injecting humor into communications as long as it did not hinder traffic flow or safety.

• Emphasizing stress management, they discuss how humor can alleviate tension during busy periods for both controllers and pilots.

• They describe complexities involved when dealing with high-profile flights like Air Force One, stressing the importance of maintaining situational awareness amidst distractions.

Conclusion

• As the interview wraps up, gratitude is expressed towards Canada Steve for sharing insights into his experiences as an air traffic controller.

Interview Experience in New York

Overview of the Trip

• The speaker expresses enjoyment from their trip to New York, emphasizing that it is always a good idea to visit.

• The primary purpose of the visit was to attend an interview, which lasted only six hours.

Future Plans

• The speaker mentions plans for another interview with a well-known pilot in New York, indicating ongoing professional development.

• There is hope expressed for positive outcomes from these interviews.

Engagement and Learning

• A call to action encourages viewers to subscribe for future content and stay engaged with upcoming videos.

• The speaker concludes with a reminder that "a good pilot is always learning," highlighting the importance of continuous education in aviation.