Eurocontrol Eyes Safety Improvements

摘要

A shortage of controllers could hamper Europe's efforts to create a modern air traffic management system. A particular worry is that inadequate staffing levels could impact safety and undermine the promised benefits of airspace capacity improvements. Another concern is that during the fielding of new equipment, the already stretched workforce could be stressed further as controllers undergo more training. This "is an issue that requires real study," says Eurocontrol Director General David McMillan. In fact, he adds, had several air traffic management (ATM) efforts not fallen behind schedule, they would have reduced the number of available controllers during the crucial summer season. Of course, that problem could reemerge. The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Assns. (Ifatca) sees a global deficit of 3,000 controllers, with Europe short 1,000-1,600, according to the lobby group's president and CEO, Marc Baumgartner.