ATCOs' Branch

THE UK & BEYOND

Who We Represent

Prospect ATCOs’ Branch represents Air Traffic Controllers and Air Traffic Management specialists throughout the UK and Gibraltar. With approximately 2000 members in the Branch, we have a very high membership density in the profession, with our members working at virtually all airports and en route centres in the UK. We celebrate our 75^th anniversary this year.

We are an occupation-based Branch with members working for numerous employers, although the majority of our members work for NATS, the public private partnership that runs the en route airspace of the UK, part of the North Atlantic Ocean, and major civil airports. NATS also provides services at some military airfields and Gibraltar. Other airports have services provided in house or through other Air Traffic Service Providers, and Prospect is the recognised trade union at many of these.

We engage with employers on all aspects of terms and conditions and professional issues, with a strong culture of safety running throughout the Branch. We spend considerable efforts lobbying and working with the UK Department for Transport and the UK Civil Aviation Authority to ensure the voice of the Air Traffic Controller is heard by legislators and policy makers.

The Branch has affiliations with the European Transport Workers Federation (ETF), supporting and working on policy issues with our colleagues in Europe, and with the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) on a global scale. Through the ITF we seek to influence the International Civil Aviation Organisation (part of the UN) which sets standards for aviation on a global level.

The Branch also has a dedicated personal case team who represent individual members in any aspect that they require on a more personal level.

If you are an air traffic controller or an ATM Specialist, join us and be part of THE VOICE of our profession.

23/3/2026 - LaGuardia Airport Incident

The Branch is deeply saddened by the tragic incident at LaGuardia Airport involving an Air Canada Jazz CRJ-900 and an emergency vehicle on the ground.

Our thoughts are with everyone impacted by this event, and with their families and loved ones.

It is important that sufficient time is taken to allow a full investigation to take place. This incident also serves as a stark reminder of the vital work we do every day as Air Traffic Controllers, and our hearts are with our colleagues in NATCA who have been affected.

1/11/2025 - Statement of Solidarity

Prospect ATCOs’ Branch stands in full solidarity with our colleagues in the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) during the ongoing U.S. government shutdown.

We recognise the immense strain this situation places on air traffic controllers and aviation professionals across the United States, who continue to carry out safety-critical duties under conditions of uncertainty and financial insecurity.

Air traffic controllers everywhere share a common commitment to maintaining the safety and efficiency of the aviation system — a responsibility that should never be compromised by political stalemate or funding disputes.

We commend NATCA’s strength, professionalism, and dedication in the face of these challenges. Please know that your UK colleagues are watching with respect and admiration, and that you have our full support and hope for an immediate resolution that ensures fair treatment, a return to financial stability, and the protection of the vital public service you provide.

7/2/2025 - Washington DC Incident

The tragic loss of life following the mid-air collision in Washington DC early this morning has shocked and saddened us all within ATC worldwide.

We have sent a letter of support from the ATCOs’ Branch to Nick Daniels, President of NATCA, expressing solidarity with our colleagues in the USA affected by this terrible occurrence.

Safety is at the heart of what we do, supported by a bedrock of open reporting and just culture. The immediate conjecture and criticism of the background and ability of Air Traffic Controllers at the very highest level within the US is something we deplore. Full investigation of the accident has started but must not be prejudiced for political gain or headlines.

Such an event is very likely the worst scenario any of us can imagine and our sincere thoughts go to the ATC professionals involved at this exceptionally difficult time.

Join Today