Movie-watching air traffic controller suspended by FAA

US Federal Aviation Administration announced an air traffic controller and a manager have been suspended for watching movies during shifts at Cleveland Air Route Traffic Control Centre (AP/Reuters/CNN, 19-Apr-2011). The air traffic control facility became aware the controller was watching a DVD early on 17-Apr-2011 when his microphone was inadvertently activated. The movie's soundtrack was transmitted over the radio throughout the air traffic area he was monitoring.

NATCA stated its support of the FAA's immediate steps to address the recent incidents.

NACTA: "NATCA and the FAA are in agreement that fatigue and scheduling must be addressed and I applaud and thank Administrator Babbitt for taking quick and decisive action today to address a large part of the problem and implement immediate steps." NACTA President Paul Rinaldi. Source: NACTA, 16-Apr-2011. [more]