We work in shift patterns - morning, back, day or night shifts. A typical day shift starts at 10.00 am and finishes at 6.00 pm. When I arrive, I'll be briefed on new procedures, or technical issues with our radars or partners in other airfields. I'll also have a briefing on the weather before watching the news to keep up to date with current affairs. Surprisingly, this can affect air travel operations, whether civilian, military or freight traffic. I also look at the maps showing military activities and ensure I'm aware of any potential issues.

I'll then head to the operations room, which looks similar to a call centre with rows of radar screens. Each desk will have a big screen and smaller screens. The smaller screens will have additional information, like runways, frequencies, general maps and other aspects surrounding the air space pertinent to my area. I will communicate directly with a pilot through my headsets using very high frequency (VHF) radio. We take a break every hour to ensure we are as fresh as possible.

The only other role I would move into during the day would be training other controllers – either new starters or controllers extending their skill set.