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Authorities are investigating that an air traffic controller at McCarran International Airport had become unfit for a period earlier this week while his co-controller was on hiatus.
Officials at the Federal Aviation Administration said that there had been no events related to safety, the loss of spacing required between aircraft or conflicts between the aircraft and the aircraft. Aerodrome and the aircraft during this period, which occurred after 23 hours. November 7th. But the agency prevented the controller from working and investigating the incident, which caught the attention of Nevada's representative, Dina Titus.
"I was informed of the incident at the McCarran Air Traffic Control Tower and was expecting more details, but I find the initial reports extremely disturbing," Titus said. member of the subcommittee on aviation of the House, in a statement. Friday. "The safety of travelers is a prime concern and I will work with the FAA and McCarran as the investigation unfolds."
FAA officials declined to explain how the controller became disabled or to indicate whether it was a medical episode, intoxication, or sleep problem, citing the privacy of the controller. They stated that the controller's performance seemed to be deteriorating at 23:09, about an hour after the start of her shift, before deteriorating at 23:24. and not answering at 23:47
A second controller entered the cabin at the top of the tower where the controllers are sitting at 23:50. and took over the air traffic functions at 23:54
FAA officials said the pilots had contacted the controllers during the approach control in Las Vegas, at the foot of the tower, who was warning him of the situation.
The agency stated that some pilots had chosen not to take off or communicate directly with other aircraft by radio while the controller was unable to carry out this task. Ground aircraft maintained their position or proceeded cautiously by attempting to speak with the controller and communicate with each other, according to the FAA.
"The FAA is deeply concerned about the incident, it is thoroughly investigating what has happened and taking immediate steps to change its night staffing policies," said the spokesman. agency in a statement.
Although the controllers are allowed to take breaks, the agency has announced the implementation of a policy requiring two controllers to remain in the cabin for some time, depending on traffic and work periods.
President of the National Association of Air Traffic Controllers, Paul Rinaldi, said the union would cooperate with the FAA as part of the investigation.
"It is important to remember the remarkable work done daily by thousands of men and women who ensure the safety of the national airspace system. Our air traffic controllers in Las Vegas and across the country perform exceptional work day after day in accordance with the highest professional standards, "Rinaldi said in a statement. "Our main concern is the safety of the national aviation system. We are proud of our safety record in Las Vegas and all facilities. We will continue to work to keep our airspace system the safest in the world.. "
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