Existing comment:
Growing Pains and Growing Concerns
Despite steadily improving air traffic control, a series of airliner accidents over five months in 1951-52 aroused public concern. Although not related to air traffic control, the accidents led to an accelerated program of technical development and promoted new discussions on safety and traffic control.
Air traffic growth in the 1950s led to severe airport congestion and delays. In 1956 two airliners collided over the Grand Canyon. Two more midair collisions occurred in 1958 and another in 1960. These events prompted legislation that enabled aviation authorities to take corrective measures.
Radar Departure Control made its debut at Washington's National Airport in 1952. Until then, radar had been used only to confirm a pilot's reported position. With the new system, controllers could provide better and safer traffic flow into and out of airports. |