An air traffic controller died in the line of duty in Thessaloniki

The air traffic controller died right at the workplace/control panel, which raised reasonable questions about whether flights are safe and whether we will definitely never have a tragedy like Tempi in the future.

It is worth noting what the responsibilities of the dispatcher are in order to understand what (unpleasant) things can happen:

• The air traffic controller gives permission to start the aircraft's engines, guides the aircraft onto the runway, and gives the final order for takeoff.
• It also guides the aircraft, orienting its flight path so that it approaches the runway and then leaves the runway, where ground personnel take control.
• Provides flight information and coordinates rescue services in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.
• He works closely with staff from other air traffic control agencies such as the Met Office, Airport Authority, Telecommunications Authority and of course the BBC.

For this reason, the Hellenic Air Traffic Controllers Union (EEEKE) has announced a suspension of work for next Tuesday, April 9 from 8:00 to 12:00, demanding support for staff, as well as for the safety of workers, following the death of their colleague at Thessaloniki Airport while on duty.

It is believed that the death at work was caused by exhaustive work and that there is a safety issue as inspectors cannot be on duty as required. During the shutdown, flights to and from Greek airports will not operate. EEEKE makes five basic requests:

• Hiring air traffic controllers to fully staff all departments.
• Constant presence of a doctor at all airports and operational units of the EJC.
• Equipping all departments with pharmacies and defibrillators.
• Implementation of a system for managing and preventing auditor fatigue, as well as a system for managing stress due to critical incidents in accordance with international regulations.
• Staffing all shifts in all air traffic units with at least two people.

It should be noted that this is not the first time that air traffic controllers have raised critical safety issues for both aviation and workers.

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