NATO’s Air Traffic Management Communications, Navigation, and Surveillance Advisory Group (ATM CNS AG) recently convened its first-ever meeting in Oklahoma City. With attendance from 22 nations and more than 50 delegates, the week-long sessions brought together key leaders to discuss pivotal advancements in aviation and air traffic control. A primary draw was the opportunity to tour the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center (MMAC), recognized for its exceptional contributions to aviation training and research.
The invitation from the United States Air Force Flight Standards Agency to visit the MMAC played a critical role in the decision to meet in Oklahoma. “The opportunity to visit the MMAC was absolutely outstanding,” said Wing Commander Pete Soanes, Chair of NATO’s ATM CNS AG from the United Kingdom, highlighting the center’s groundbreaking work in aviation training and research.
Larry Cole, Chair of NATO’s Airspace Operations Systems Working Group, reinforced the significance of the MMAC in nurturing international collaboration. “Many of our allies that are members of NATO send their members to the MMAC to become qualified and trained to enhance their capabilities within their nations,” Cole explained. “That is all part of the interoperability of what we do. It was a great opportunity for us to demonstrate Oklahoma and the capabilities that it has to the NATO community ”
The MMAC is recognized as a pivotal center of excellence for both civil and military aviation, specializing in training programs that enhance aviation safety and operational efficiency.
Soanes spoke on NATO’s admiration for the capabilities at the MMAC, stating, “European partners coming here were jealous of the capability you have here. It’s unique to have everything concentrated in one place. You’ve got some truly groundbreaking work being done with amazing staff. They’re doing cutting-edge research that none of us have seen. They’ve got fantastic human factors research that is an interest area for many of us in the group.”
Secretary of NATO’s ATM CNS AG, Stephen Hanson, noted, “Having lived here 20 years ago as an ex-Air Force officer from Canada, I knew how important Oklahoma was to aviation in general with Tinker Air Force Base, the FAA and other organizations.” He added, “A lot of people don’t realize what a hidden gem in the aviation world that Oklahoma is.”
This historic meeting highlights NATO’s efforts to advance aviation safety and technology while showcasing Oklahoma City’s vital role in aviation innovation. By bringing together leaders at the Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, known for its outstanding training and research capabilities, Oklahoma City is recognized as a key player in international collaboration, fostering strong partnerships among NATO allies and shaping the future of aviation.
