Neighborly Skies

US Southern Command is preparing to begin surveys of potential sites for a regional coordination center to synchronize airspace management among Latin American nations. The site visits could start as early as February, according to the Air Force’s Electronic Systems Center which sent officials from its International Operations Division to study the needs of the nations there. Eight nations have already signed a letter of intent to work together and have agreed to take part in the Central American coordination center that will be known by the Spanish-language acronym SRVA. The center will help to enhance their radar control and coordination both for civil and military traffic, especially below 19,500 feet, thereby improving air safety and security and countering criminal activity like drug smuggling. (USAF report by Chuck Paone)