IFATCA releases statement on situation in Haiti

The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations, IFATCA, is gravely concerned for the safety of civil aviation in Haitian airspace following the attack on civil aviation safety personnel, including three air traffic controllers, one suffering a gunshot injury, in close proximity to Toussaint Louverture International Airport while being transported to work.

IFATCA has asked the National Office of Civil Aviation (OFNAC) for their immediate and thorough attention to the significant matters involving the safety and security of air traffic control professionals and subsequently the aviation system in Haiti. Unfortunately, to date IFATCA has received no response from OFNAC.

IFATCA acknowledges the difficult situation in the country and hopes for peace soon. However, the health and well-being of this essential workforce is of the utmost concern to us therefore proper dialogue should take place so resolution with representatives of Association Professionnelle des Contrôleurs Aériens Haïtiens (APCAH) can occur regarding this urgent situation.

While air traffic control personnel have worked tirelessly to provide services it is time now to readjust the priorities to protect these air traffic controllers. Exacerbating this already tragic situation, allowing former air traffic controllers that are not qualified, rated, licensed, or certified to work air traffic control positions poses concerns for the safety of air traffic in Haiti.

The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers’ Associations (IFATCA) is the independent, non-political, and non-industrial professional association representing more than 50,000 air traffic controllers in 133 countries worldwide. Among the objectives of the Federation is the promotion of safety, efficiency, and regularity in international air navigation, along with safeguarding the interests of air traffic controllers. In this case, air traffic controllers’ lives are at risk.

IFATCA, as a Federation of aviation safety professionals feels obligated to raise this matter of extreme urgency.