Air Traffic Control Fully Certified
Communication Breakdown
ATC Issue All Types
General None Reported / Taken
Procedure
Upon beginning the shift I read the Comprehensive Electronic Data Analysis and Reporting (CEDAR) information as required. I noticed there was a Read and Initial (R&I) memo about not using the (TYP) amendment for aircraft using ERAM as a RADAR display system. The memo said do not use the TYP amendment or it would delete all data in the equipment part of the ICAO flight plan template. I notified the Operations Manager; who was in the area at the time; I felt the memo should have been a Hot Sheet instead of and R&I. I understood what was being said in the memo and how to use the ICAO template; because I have taken time to teach myself how to use it; but most of the work force in my area and the facility do not. She said that the facility had been 'trained' on this issue and the way it was in CEDAR was just fine. I went on to tell her that I estimated less than 30% of the controller force know how to use the template portion of the ICAO Flight Plan. She said we had been trained in the past and it was the problem of the controller to know how to use the template. There have been a few times when the wrong data in the RNP section have resulted in a deviation in another control facility; and charged to my ARTCC. I arrived to work today and as was given a copy of the briefing that was given several years ago about the ICAO flight plan. Obviously she did not listen to what I said; because there was a note attached to the FLM to ensure I understood the information in the packet. I asked 12 of the 15 other controllers in the control room at the time; either they did not understand the information; or had never been given the briefing; let alone taught how to make changes in the ICAO flight plan template. I recommend that there be computer based instructions or hands on training be given to the controller work force on how to use the ICAO template. This could be in the TTL or a free sector in the area by the FLM. There is a big difference between a briefing and instruction.
Enroute Controller described an unsafe situation in the facility with regard to ERAM equipment and ICAO Flight Plan modifications; the reporter suggested additional instruction on the subject process in lieu of briefings.