Archie League facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Archie William League
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Archie League is shown while on duty during the summer at Lambert-St. Louis International Airport. His equipment included rolled-up flags in the wheelbarrow, the dangling lunch box, a folding chair, drinking water, and a pad for taking notes.
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| Born | August 19, 1907 |
| Died | October 1, 1986 (aged 79) |
| Education | Degree in aeronautical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis |
| Employer | Federal Aviation Administration |
| Known for | Generally considered the first air traffic controller. |
Archie William League (born August 19, 1907 – died October 1, 1986) is known as the first air traffic controller in the United States. He helped create the system that guides planes safely today.
Before becoming a controller, Archie was a skilled pilot. He was also a licensed mechanic for aircraft and engines. He even performed in a "flying circus" called barnstorming shows. He flew around Missouri and Illinois, showing off amazing stunts.
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Becoming the First Air Traffic Controller
In 1929, the city of St. Louis hired Archie. He became the very first air traffic controller in the U.S. He worked at the airfield in St. Louis, which is now called Lambert-St. Louis International Airport.
Directing Planes with Flags
In the beginning, there was no radio tower. Archie used flags to direct planes. He was like a "flagman" on the airfield.
- He used a checkered flag to tell pilots to "GO" or proceed.
- A red flag meant pilots should "HOLD" their position.
His first "control tower" was very simple. It was a wheelbarrow! He put a beach umbrella on it for shade in the summer. He also carried a beach chair, his lunch, water, and a notepad. In winter, he wore a warm padded flying suit.
From Flags to Radio Control
In the early 1930s, a radio tower was finally built. Archie then became the airport's first radio controller. This was a big step forward for air traffic control.
Archie's Career in Aviation
Archie League continued his education. He earned a degree in aeronautical engineering from Washington University in St. Louis. This helped him understand how planes fly and how to make air travel safer.
Joining the Federal Service
In 1937, Archie joined the federal government. He worked for the Bureau of Air Commerce. This agency later became the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA is in charge of keeping air travel safe in the U.S.
Archie quickly moved up in his career. He served as a pilot in World War II, reaching the rank of colonel. After the war, he took on important leadership roles. He helped develop the federal air traffic control system we use today. He retired in 1973 after 36 years of service.
Honoring His Legacy
The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) created an award in his honor. It's called the Archie League Medal of Safety Awards. This award recognizes air traffic controllers who show outstanding safety.
Early Life and Passing
Archie William League was born on August 19, 1907, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. He passed away on October 1, 1986, in Annandale, Virginia, at the age of 79.
See also
- First Air Traffic Controller Remembered
