The government in the north postponed the air traffic control strike at Ercan (Tymbou) airport for 60 days due to concerns over aviation safety and neglect of public property for financial gain. The decision followed urgent warnings from the union about technical inadequacies and substandard working conditions, forcing the air traffic control staff to halt their push for improvements.
Why was the air traffic control strike at Ercan airport postponed?
The government mandated a 60-day suspension of the air traffic control strike at Ercan (Tymbou) airport due to concerns over compromised aviation safety and neglect of public property for financial gain. This decision followed urgent warnings from the union about technical inadequacies and substandard working conditions.
Immediate Suspension of Strike Activity
Amidst rising tensions, the administration in the north made a decisive move to halt strike actions at Ercan (Tymbou) airport by mandating a 60-day suspension. This came into effect right after air traffic control staff had ceased work, voicing their concerns through what was intended to be a 13-hour overnight strike. The sudden intervention forced the staffers back to their posts, delaying their push for improved working conditions.
Air traffic controllers had voiced urgent warnings regarding the state of affairs at the airport, emphasizing that aviation and its associated safety were being compromised. The privatization of Ercan airport in 2013, according to the union’s chairman, Cem Kapisiz, shifted its focus towards becoming a revenue source for its holding company rather than serving the public as a transportation hub.
Safety Concerns and Financial Burdens
Kapisiz highlighted the neglect of public property and safety for financial gain. The accusations were serious, suggesting that the officials had allowed private capital to weaken the air transport services that rightfully belong to the people. The recent opening of a new airport terminal was also criticized as being driven by political ambition, adding financial strain to the company responsible for the airport’s operation.
The government’s actions removed local authority over contract evaluations, transferring that power to an arbitral tribunal governed by the Turkish government. This move drew sharp criticism from Kapisiz, who argued that it distracted from the crucial issue of aviation safety.
Technical Inadequacies and Subcontracted Labor
The Ercan airport has faced two significant safety incidents in the past five months, attributed to technical inadequacies. Kapisiz highlighted these incidents to underline the government’s failure to learn and implement necessary safety measures. Furthermore, he condemned the apparent indifference towards subcontractors employing workers under substandard conditions, likening it to a ‘slave market’.
The chairman’s impassioned words pointed to a dire need for change, stressing the non-negotiable nature of safety in aviation. Despite the financial status of the holding company, T&T, Kapisiz firmly stated that cutting corners in aviation safety was unacceptable and could lead to disastrous outcomes.
Reaction from the ‘Transport Minister’
The ‘transport minister’ of the north, Erhan Arikli, responded to the unfolding situation by denouncing the strike as “meaningless and unnecessary.” This statement was met with mixed reactions, as many argued that the concerns raised by the air traffic control staff were legitimate and needed addressing.
The future of Ercan airport and the safety of its operations now hang in the balance, with the administration facing tough choices to reconcile financial management with the non-negotiable priority of passenger and staff safety.
Why was the air traffic control strike at Ercan airport postponed?
The government mandated a 60-day suspension of the air traffic control strike at Ercan (Tymbou) airport due to concerns over compromised aviation safety and neglect of public property for financial gain. This decision followed urgent warnings from the union about technical inadequacies and substandard working conditions.
What led to the immediate suspension of strike activity at Ercan airport?
The administration in the north intervened to halt strike actions at Ercan airport by mandating a 60-day suspension immediately after the air traffic control staff had ceased work. The decision came amidst rising tensions and forced the staffers back to their posts, delaying their push for improved working conditions.
What were some of the safety concerns and financial burdens highlighted by the union chairman?
The union chairman highlighted the neglect of public property and safety for financial gain at Ercan airport. The privatization of the airport in 2013 shifted its focus towards revenue generation rather than public service, leading to compromised safety and financial strain. He also criticized the subcontracting practices and technical inadequacies that had led to safety incidents.
How did the ‘Transport Minister’ of the north respond to the situation at Ercan airport?
The ‘transport minister’ denounced the strike as “meaningless and unnecessary,” drawing mixed reactions from the public. The future of Ercan airport now hinges on tough decisions regarding financial management and the prioritization of passenger and staff safety.
