[RobertLS]

Air Traffic Controllers work in terminal and enroute facilities, such as control towers and air route traffic control centers. When the FAA allowed controllers to ride in the cockpit, this was limited to so many flights per year. Although controllers could take as many as 8 round trips per year, the average controller took perhaps 2 each year. These were training opportunities, allowing the controller to see flight operations, first hand, and allowing the controllers and pilots to directly interact. It facilitated communications and helped to improve flight safety by increasing the understanding of each others' occupation. What I'm adding to the mix is that the air traffic controller was a security component as well. The controller was properly badged and vetted by the FAA. Access to the flight deck was in accord with stringent security protocols.

In short, this was a good program and it ought to be reinstated.