Government Pledges Support for Air Traffic Controllers Amid Increasing Flights
As Antigua and Barbuda experiences a surge in air traffic, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Charles Fernandez has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting air traffic controllers, acknowledging their critical role in ensuring aviation safety.
Speaking at a tourism press conference, Fernandez highlighted the growing number of international and regional flights, with new airlines establishing hubs in Antigua and the opening of the Barbuda International Airport contributing to increased air traffic. He noted that air traffic controllers often go unnoticed despite their essential function in managing this heightened activity and ensuring safe operations.
“We take them for granted because they are up in the tower, but they are the ones working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly,” Fernandez stated.
The minister addressed recent aviation incidents, emphasizing the need for continued investment in air traffic control infrastructure and personnel. He announced that the government has been in discussions with air traffic controllers and has already taken steps to enhance their working conditions and training.
“To that end, I want to publicly commit on behalf of the Cabinet and the government that we will do whatever is necessary to ensure they remain at the top of their game. We have already started engaging with them even before these incidents occurred,” he affirmed.
Fernandez also referenced plans to introduce a new radar system, with personnel already undergoing training to operate the equipment. This move aligns with the government’s broader strategy to modernize Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation sector and strengthen its position as a regional hub.
The increased traffic includes new and returning airlines, with Sunshine Airways considering Antigua as its headquarters and the continued expansion of regional and international carriers. Fernandez emphasized that with this growth, the government recognizes the necessity of ensuring that air traffic controllers are equipped with the best resources and training available.
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I hear Air Controllers have been calling for an investigation into how some 8-10 Air controllers have been have been taken offline and careers have been shattered because of a flawed and rigged testing system that they have to do yearly and created by a lady who implemented it as a senior officer in the department and get seconded by the regulators to regulate what she implemented. And me hear the Calypsonian even woserer cuz he kick out wan a dem bess Air controller because he talk de truth to the people above them. Tek care a dem jack dem deserve it.