Airlines flew without traffic controllers
Various media have reported that a number of flights carrying thousands of passengers were put in danger at the weekend when they flew without air traffic controller assistance.
A number of air traffic controllers called in sick on Friday and Saturday, with authorities unable to replace them at short notice and the staff outage left aircraft flying uncontrolled, News Limited newspapers reports.
At least 14 air traffic controllers who had rostered days off were call to fill in, but were unable to work.
Air traffic controllers have specific protocols over their sick days, including being unable to work with even a headache or minor flu.
Friday saw three controllers call in sick, leaving the Top East airspace in Queensland unmonitored during the busy 3PM till 9PM period.
In such an event, airlines must make their own judgement on whether to fly through the airspace.
Qantas is believed to be the only airline who chose not to fly in the airspace, while Jetstar, Virgin Blue and a number of International airlines flew through the space.
Australian and International Pilots Association president Ian Woods says the system is an accident waiting to happen.
“Did the airlines that operated through these blind spots do a risk analysis on a mid-air collision? I bet they didn’t,” Mr Woods said.
“This can’t go on, we either stand up for safety or we don’t.”
A Report by The Mole from various media
John Alwyn-Jones
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