Every day, air traffic controllers prevent aircraft collisions. These incidents occur all over the world without being considered cause for concern; however, the situation in Cyprus is different because of Turkey.
Speaking on the Alpha Kalimera program, the president of the Pan-Cyprian Air Traffic Controllers’ Union (PASEEK), Giorgos Georgiou, expressed his appreciation for the statements of support from the President of the Republic regarding the work of air traffic controllers.
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However, the problem with Turkey, which the controllers have highlighted, “does not depend on the Republic of Cyprus,” Mr. Georgiou added.
“Its resolution depends on Turkey. And we have called upon—through our European association, as well as directly through our own association—our European partners, those responsible for civil aviation matters as well as the International Civil Aviation Organization to exert pressure on Turkey to resolve or mitigate the problem for the sake of flight safety”
He also noted that every day, mid-air collisions between aircraft and collisions between aircraft and other objects or vehicles on the ground are prevented.
“This is our daily work. Many times a day, planes are on a collision course unless we intervene. They’re flying at the same altitude on converging paths, and our job is to turn one or both of them, or to raise or lower one of them, to prevent a collision. These are everyday occurrences and are quite common.”
He added that there is nothing to worry about, as this happens all over the world.
However, the situation in Cyprus is different due to two serious interventions by Turkey.
“One is the operation of the illegal airport in Tymbou. And the other is the recent activity of Turkish military aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles in our FIR, which is hindering our work. These are the factors that set us apart from other countries and other FIRs.”
There is no radio communication with these aircraft, nor do they submit flight plans, with both the Pan-Cypriot and European unions calling for the International Organization and the European Commission to intervene with Turkey.
“We will experience delays in the FIR”
At the same time, Mr. Georgiou highlighted the need to establish a state-owned air navigation service provider, noting that the relevant decision by the Council of Ministers dates back to 2013.
“For this to take effect, there must be a decision by the Council of Ministers stating that we are moving forward with the establishment of the state-owned company.”
However, the situation remains at a standstill, with Mr. Georgiou emphasizing that it would be an important tool for the service’s operational flexibility, which would facilitate rapid staff recruitment.
“Because right now it’s impossible to train them quickly. Both Eurocontrol and we anticipate that from next summer through 2030, we will face delays in the FIR, as we have in the past, because there won’t be enough staff.”
He added that in mid-June, IATA sent a letter urging the Cypriot government to move forward as quickly as possible with the establishment of a company.
