Impact of Competency on Performance: An Application to Air Traffic Controller

Abstract

The aim of the study was to examine the differences in air traffic controllers' perceptions of competency and performance based on variables such as experience, units, and being an instructor, and to determine the impact of competency on performance along with its sub-factors. The study sample consisted of 397 air traffic controllers in Türkiye. In line with the aim of the study, the Air Traffic Control Competency Scale (ATCCS) and the Performance Scale (PEC), both utilizing a 5-point Likert rating, were used to measure the competencies and performances of air traffic controllers. The analyses revealed that the group with 0-5 years of experience have high perceptions of competency (mean=4.5379) and performance (mean=4.3418) and that perceptions do not differ according to being an instructor or the unit. It was found that 60.3% of the variation in the performance variable was dependent on the competency variable (r=0.777; β=0.796), and there was a positive and significant interaction among all sub-factors. Future research is recommended to adopt a broader and more dynamic approach by examining additional variables, tracking long-term changes, and considering diverse operational contexts to enhance competency and performance in air traffic control.