International Day of Air Traffic Controller is observed worldwide every October 20 to celebrate the contributions of air traffic controllers. This day commemorates the foundation anniversary of the International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA), which was established in 1961 following an initiative by the Israel Air Traffic Controllers' Association led by Mr. Jacob Wachtel in 1956. The first meeting to lay the groundwork for IFATCA took place in Amsterdam, Netherlands, on October 19-20. Initially representing 12 nations, IFATCA has since expanded to include 137 countries. The celebration serves as a reminder of the essential work performed by air traffic controllers to ensure the safety of air traffic.