MONTREAL – (BUSINESS WIRE) – The International Federation of Airline Pilots Associations (IFALPA) is extremely concerned about the latest developments in the situation regarding air traffic controllers in Albania.

The International Convention on Civil Aviation prohibits an air traffic controller from exercising the privileges of his licenses and related ratings at any time when he becomes aware of a decrease in his medical fitness which could render him incapable of safely and correctly exercise these privileges. It is considered dangerous to have air traffic control carried out by a person who is physically or mentally disabled in any way, or who is unqualified and untrained for the job.

The Federation is disappointed to see that three air traffic controllers are still detained after having exercised their obligation to ensure that they were medically fit to perform their duties. Air traffic control is a safety critical task where the responsibilities of an air traffic controller require that he be able to perform his duties without being distracted. This situation undoubtedly causes considerable distraction and anxiety for their remaining colleagues.

The Federation is also concerned about reports that controllers from other states have been brought in to perform ATC duties in Albania and whether these controllers have received the necessary local training and qualification before controlling traffic at their destination. and across Albania.

IFALPA calls on the Albanian authorities to demonstrate and fulfill the obligations provided for in the treaties, conventions, the constitution and associated obligations to which they have subscribed and to resume negotiations with the monitors to re-establish a viable relationship to resolve the situation. Releasing the detained controllers would be a laudable gesture to help improve the situation.

For more information, please contact Emily Bitting, IFALPA Senior Communications Specialist, [email protected], +1 514 419 1191 ext. 228

Note to Editors: The International Federation of Air Line Pilot Associations represents more than 100,000 pilots in nearly 100 countries around the world. The mission of IFALPA is to promote the highest level of aviation safety in the world and to be the global defender of the profession of pilot; to provide representation, service and support to our members and the aviation industry. Please visit www.ifalpa.org for more information.

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