On 30 September 2024, skeyes will bid farewell to its Chief Operations Officer (COO), Ms Peggy Devestel, who has been a pivotal figure in air traffic control for over three decades. Starting the very next day, she will assume the prestigious role of Director at the Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC), a vital institution responsible for managing air traffic in Europe’s upper airspace.
Ms Devestel’s departure from skeyes and transition to EUROCONTROL’s MUAC is more than just a career shift; it represents a significant evolution in European air traffic management. Let’s dive deeper into this major development and its potential impact on one of Europe’s busiest and most complex airspaces.
Peggy Devestel : A Proven Track Record at Skeyes
Peggy Devestel’s tenure as COO at skeyes speaks volumes about her expertise and leadership abilities. Skeyes, Belgium’s national air traffic control body, is tasked with overseeing operations at six of the country’s busiest airports—Brussels, Liège, Charleroi, Antwerp, Ostend, and Kortrijk. Additionally, the organisation is responsible for managing the « en route » airspace over Belgium and parts of Luxembourg, encompassing traffic at altitudes up to 7,500 metres (FL245).
Under her leadership, skeyes efficiently coordinated air traffic while ensuring the highest safety standards. Devestel was also at the helm of technical services related to communication, navigation, and radar surveillance systems. With more than 600 employees under her supervision, she contributed to the advancement of air traffic safety and technology in the region.
Peggy Devestel : A Stellar Career
Peggy Devestel’s journey to the top has been nothing short of remarkable. Her career began as an air traffic controller, but her natural leadership and technical expertise saw her rise through the ranks. She has held positions such as ATS (Air Traffic Services) expert, Regional Airports Manager, Head of Customer Affairs, and General Director of Operations. In 2018, she took on the role of COO at skeyes, a role that was extended until 2028 due to her exceptional performance.
Now, after a career spanning more than 30 years, Ms Devestel is ready to bring her wealth of experience to MUAC.
Peggy Devestel : Taking on the Challenge at MUAC
On 1 October 2024, Peggy Devestel will officially become the Director of the Maastricht Upper Area Control Centre (MUAC), an organisation managed by EUROCONTROL. MUAC is tasked with the challenging responsibility of managing upper airspace traffic—ranging from FL245 to FL660—over four countries: Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and Germany.
In this new role, Ms Devestel will oversee one of the most efficient air traffic control services in Europe. The centre manages thousands of flights daily, ensuring the safe and seamless transit of aircraft through one of Europe’s busiest airspaces. The multinational nature of MUAC, where civil and military air traffic management is integrated, requires robust leadership and diplomatic finesse—qualities Ms Devestel has demonstrated throughout her career.
The Importance of MUAC
MUAC’s role in European air traffic control cannot be overstated. It manages air traffic above national borders, allowing for smoother and more efficient flight paths. This upper-level coordination significantly reduces delays and improves fuel efficiency, benefiting both airlines and passengers.
MUAC’s responsibilities include managing the Brussels Upper Information Region (UIR), the Amsterdam UIR, part of the Hanover UIR in Germany, and part of Luxembourg’s airspace. With air traffic on the rise post-pandemic, the need for efficient coordination at these higher altitudes has never been more critical.
Peggy Devestel’s appointment as MUAC Director was unanimously supported by the four countries involved in MUAC operations, highlighting her reputation and the trust placed in her abilities. Her role will be vital in maintaining and enhancing the cooperation between these countries, ensuring that air traffic remains safe and efficient across their shared airspace.
A Transition at Skeyes
While skeyes is saying goodbye to a respected leader, it is ensuring continuity in operations with the appointment of Mr Philippe Witpas as the interim COO. Witpas, who has worked closely with Ms Devestel, will continue to lead skeyes during the transition period, maintaining the high standards set by his predecessor.
As the air traffic landscape continues to evolve, both skeyes and MUAC are positioned to play key roles in managing air traffic across Europe. With Ms Devestel’s appointment, MUAC is poised to benefit from her years of experience and forward-thinking leadership.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for European Air Traffic Management
Peggy Devestel’s move from skeyes to MUAC marks a significant milestone in European aviation. As air traffic demand continues to rise, her leadership will be crucial in guiding MUAC through new challenges and ensuring that European skies remain safe and efficient.
Her extensive background in air traffic control, coupled with her deep understanding of both civil and military operations, positions her as a perfect fit for this role. Over the next five years, it will be exciting to see how Ms Devestel shapes MUAC’s future and strengthens multinational cooperation in air traffic management.
Share Your Thoughts
What are your thoughts on Peggy Devestel’s transition to MUAC? How do you think her leadership will impact European air traffic? We’d love to hear your insights! Feel free to share your opinions and join the conversation in the comments below.
