IFATCA commends Pakistan air traffic controllers amid regional airspace disruptions

ISLAMABAD: The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers' Associations (IFATCA) has praised Pakistan’s air traffic controllers for their work during recent disruptions in regional airspace, acknowledging their role in keeping operations safe and efficient.

IFATCA conveyed its appreciation in a letter issued on Monday. In the letter, IFATCA Executive Vice President for the Asia Pacific region Cheryl Chen commended the performance of Pakistani controllers and recognised their contribution during a difficult period for air navigation in the region.

Chen said the federation appreciated the dedication shown by Pakistan’s air traffic control personnel in recent weeks, as they continued to manage operations amid the wider regional situation.

IFATCA expressed strong appreciation for the professionalism and commitment of Pakistan’s air traffic controllers, describing their role as crucial in ensuring that air traffic operations remained safe and efficient despite the challenges created by the regional airspace disruptions.

The acknowledgement comes at a time when tensions in the broader region have continued to affect aviation operations. The development followed a day after the United States and Iran failed to reach an agreement to end hostilities, despite marathon negotiations that lasted around 21 hours.

No further details were provided in the report about the contents of the letter beyond IFATCA’s praise for the Pakistani controllers and its recognition of their recent performance.

Recognition from international body

IFATCA is an international representative body for air traffic controllers, and its message of support highlighted the importance of the work carried out by Pakistan’s controllers during a period of regional uncertainty. The federation specifically acknowledged their professionalism and dedication while referring to the recent weeks of operational pressure.

The letter from Cheryl Chen underscored that Pakistan’s air traffic controllers had continued to perform their duties in a manner that helped maintain the safety and efficiency of air traffic services during the disruptions.