This scene could have ended in disaster had there not been any DF assistance available. We picked up the action midway in a DF orientation of a lost aircraft, after the inflight specialist had obtained other necessary information. His best bet was a FSS specialist with DF equipment and know how. The above incident is only one facet of a FSS specialist's job on any typical work day. Along with helping lost aircraft, the inflight specialist at Altoona AFSS must monitor 33 frequencies and at certain times of the day give airport advisories.
Many demands can create a hectic job.
This specialist does not have a radar scope to aid in the situation but must formulate a picture in his mind and act accordingly. AFSS specialists serve many functions. The most important one is acting as the liaison between the flying public and Air Traffic Control. The preflight specialist creates the first impression of the system as a whole. The responsibility of the preflight specialist emerges by his recommendations to many pilots, especially student pilots, for the basis of their go, no-go decision.