“Tower Operations: Facts and Fiction” Hangar Flying Session

“Tower Operations: Facts and Fiction”

Neil Otey, KANE Tower

Flying into Class D airspace can be an intimidating enterprise, full of mystery and perceived problems. Neil Otey, a controller in the tower at the Anoka County-Blaine airport, is not only an exceptional controller, he is a pilot who truly understands the fear and trepidation that many face when thinking about flying into a tower-controlled airspace. He will dispel some myths and provide a lively, interactive experience for those who attend his session.

Neil Otey has been an Air Traffic Controller at the Anoka County Airport for the past 11 years. Prior to this, he was a controller in the Minneapolis (MSP) tower/tracon for 19 years. Neil also has worked at the Crystal (MIC) tower, Minneapolis FSS, LaCrosse FSS, and with MSP Center. Neil holds a Commercial Pilot certificate with single/multi engine, seaplane, and instrument ratings; and is a Certified Flight Instructor. When the weather cooperates, you may see Neil flying from the Lake Elmo Airport to his job at the Anoka County Tower. While flying, we would expect his radio procedures to be perfect. Neil is an avid mountain biker and has been known to cut a mean rug on the dance floor.