History

In 1952, a group of far-sighted controllers set about the task of organising a professional body that could safeguard and promote the profession of air traffic control. Their endeavours quickly attracted support and, during 1954, the Guild of Air Traffic Control Officers (GATCO) was officially formed, listing some 278 foundation members. The original principles of GATCO have stood the test of time.

If you want to find out about the history of ATC in the UK, have a look at GATCO’s ATC history website, run by GATCO historian, John Levesley.

GATCO Masters and Presidents

Masters

1954 – 1955   C A Robinson
1955 – 1956   G E Lillywhite
1956 – 1957   E Vincent-Miller
1957 – 1958   B F Collins
1958 – 1959   W C Woodruff
1959 – 1960   K I Pearson
1960 – 1962   A Field
1962 – 1963   J Macdonald
1963 – 1964   K B Crosby
1964 – 1965   J N Toseland
1965 – 1966   N Alcock
1966 – 1967   L S Vass
1967 – 1968   P D S Mealing
1968 – 1969   A Field
1969 – 1970   W E J Groves
1970 – 1972   T H Harrison
1972 – 1973   P J Martin
1973 – 1974   E C Dyer
1974 – 1975   T S Johnston
1975 – 1978   L W Curry

Presidents

1978 – 1980   L W Curry
1980 – 1984   R J Timlett
1984 – 1986   E G H Green
1986 – 1990   C J Stock
1990 – 1995   D W F Grace
1995 – 1996   S P Tyas
1998 – 1999   P C Templeman
1999 – 2004   R E J Dawson
2004 – 2007   J M Levesley
2007 – 2010   R Marshall
2010 – 2013   S W Brindley
2013 – 2017   J Ogilvie
2017 - 2021   L Barbero
2021 - 2023   M Taylor