Steve Hampton Steps Up To Work For The FAA

Steve Hampton, associate dean for research in the College of Aviation at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, FL, has been appointed to the management council of the Next Generation Air Transportation System (NGATS) Institute. The institute was created by the Federal Aviation Administration to assist the federal government as it defines and implements a new air traffic control system.

Hampton, who will represent federal advisory committees, universities, and nonprofit research organizations, is one of 15 industry leaders selected by NGATS. Others represent air traffic controllers, airport operators, business aircraft operations, commercial pilots, helicopter operations, manufacturers, regional airline operations, and small aircraft general aviation operations.

"It's a privilege to represent not only Embry-Riddle, but also the rest of the academic community in this unique opportunity to shape the future of aviation," Hampton (right) said. His responsibilities will cover all aspects of the future airspace system, including air traffic control, airborne Internet, airport infrastructure, navigation, commercial and general aviation, data links, and unmanned airborne vehicles.

The council is co-chaired by Paul Bollinger Jr., president of the Air Traffic Control Association, and James May, president and CEO of the Air Transport Association. Other members include Phil Boyer, president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, John Douglass, president and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association, and Duane Woerth, president of the Air Line Pilots Association.

The management council will appoint and oversee industry experts for eight teams to engage the government on matters of importance to NGATS, including airport infrastructure, air traffic, environmental protection, and security.

FMI: www.erau.edu