![After witnessing a rough landing, the author—an air traffic controller—alerted the FBO out of concern. The incident underscores a simple but important lesson: when something doesn't seem right, speaking up may help prevent a tragedy. [Credit: Adobe Stock]](https://tbh.express/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/Air-Traffic-Controllers-Must-Embrace-Duty-to-Speak-Up-scaled.jpeg "Air Traffic Controllers Must Embrace Duty to Speak Up")
As the previous arrival clears the runway, I transmit, “November 11 Alpha, cleared for the option” per his request. I’m moderately busy at the local control (Tower) position with several VFR aircraft doing pattern work interspersed with occasional itinerant arrivals and departures.
I work the VFR traffic around the IFR arrivals and into the flow. It’s a sunny spring afternoon, a good day for flying. I focus on the arrival, making sure all looks well with the aircraft, and double-check the runway and departure path as he approaches for what I expect to be a touch-and-go or stop-and-go.
