Air Operations Leaders Develop Future Fleet Air Traffic Controllers on Diego Garcia
DIEGO GARCIA, British Indian Ocean Territory (June 17, 2026) — Every aircraft arriving or departing from Navy Support Facility Diego Garcia represents a carefully coordinated effort by air operations personnel working behind the scenes to support the installation's mission. Leadership at the airfield is equally committed to developing the Sailors who make those missions possible, ensuring the team remains ready to sustain the critical link connecting the remote atoll to the rest of the world.
"Training is one of our top priorities," said Senior Chief Air Traffic Controlman Bridgett Peñate, leading chief petty officer of NSF Diego Garcia air operations department. "Through mentorship, on-the-job training and hands-on experience, we develop Sailors into confident professionals capable of handling complex responsibilities."
The department supports a wide range of missions, including military airlifts, logistics, passenger movements, training flights and transient aircraft from around the globe. This diverse mission set provides Sailors with valuable experience supporting real-world operations in a dynamic environment.
"The variety keeps our Sailors sharp and provides experience that few duty stations can match,” Peñate said.
Leadership also emphasizes teamwork as a cornerstone of success. Personnel work closely with one another, as well as joint-service partners operating on the installation, to ensure safe and efficient flight operations.
"Diego Garcia is a joint environment, and teamwork is essential," Air Traffic Controlman 1st Class Mitchell Mason, tower branch chief said. "We regularly support multiple military branches and partner nations, ensuring everyone can safely accomplish their mission."
Whether working in flight planning, airfield operations or the control tower, Sailors gain firsthand experience coordinating aircraft movements and supporting mission requirements. Senior personnel provide mentorship throughout the process, helping build both technical proficiency and confidence.
The collaborative environment helps create a culture where Sailors learn not only occupational skills, but also leadership, communication and accountability.
“It’s a very close-knit environment,” Air Traffic Controlman Airman Aaron Givhan said. “We all work together to create a smooth flow of operations. There’s definitely a synergy between all the positions.”
As aircraft continue to connect Diego Garcia with locations around the world, the department’s leaders remain committed to preparing the next generation of aviation professionals.
"Watching Sailors grow and succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of leadership," Peñate said.
Diego Garcia offers a unique opportunity for junior Sailors to learn their craft while supporting daily missions. From their first qualification to supporting complex flight operations, Sailors on Diego Garcia gain experience that will serve them throughout their Navy careers, ensuring they are ready to support the fleet wherever the mission takes them.
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