Weather is a factor in a majority of aviation accidents. Even with advances in technology, rapidly changing weather patterns still present a significant danger to flight safety. Controllers, working in highly technical environments, scan a kaleidoscope of weather charts and constantly updated weather data. Assisting pilots, both before and during flight, avoid potential dangers. The FSS Air Traffic Controller's area of responsibility is international.
Pilots travel to unpredictable destinations.
One pilot may be planing a local training flight, the next pilot flying to Mexico City, and the next a lifeguard helicopter flying out to the scene of an accident. Add to that the weather patterns constantly moving around the globe and the changing status of critical navigational aids, and you have a situation that requires constant attention, and sound judgement. Then, to provide service, controllers must have the ability to orally paint a clear picture of a fluctuating environment. FSS Controllers rarely see the final outcome of their work. The pilot hangs up and is on his way, another call drops in.