Sydney Airport’s air traffic controllers are working gruelling rosters of up to 10 days on and one off as staffing shortages raise fresh concerns about delays and cancellations during the upcoming school holidays.
A new report has shed light on the staffing crisis, revealing air traffic controllers are taking an average of 17 sick days a year.
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Controllers are entitled to unlimited sick leave because they cannot work while fatigued or unwell, but concerns have been raised about chronic understaffing and demanding rosters.
Former Qantas pilot Richard Woodward warned the staffing pressures could have consequences for travellers, particularly as Sydney Airport prepares for another busy holiday period.
“They are desperately short. They’re recruiting more than 10 per cent of the workforce next year. That’s a sure sign that they’re desperately short of controllers,” Woodward said.
“10 days on, one day off is ridiculous.”
Former Qantas pilot Richard Woodward warned the staffing pressures could have consequences for travellers. Credit: Sunrise
The revelations come amid heightened scrutiny of air traffic control operations at Sydney Airport following a number of recent incidents.
Six safety incidents involving passenger aircraft were recorded on the tarmac in just one month.
The incidents have placed the airport’s safety record under scrutiny as Australia’s skies are set to become even busier, with Western Sydney International Airport scheduled to open in October and the Christmas travel rush only months away.
Woodward said fatigue could be a contributing factor when controllers are working demanding schedules.
“They’re making mistakes because they’re tired,” he said.
“This place is governed by a law that says you can’t turn up to a week fatigued, the same as pilots.
“They’ve got a very stressful job. I think the air route between Sydney and Melbourne is in the top 10 of busier routes in the world.”
The former pilot said air traffic controllers play a critical role in keeping aircraft separated both in the air and on the ground.
“If you’re flying a commercial jet, you’re governed by their directions,” Woodward said.
“So when you’re approaching Sydney Airport or even taxiing out, you’ve got to take their instructions about crossing taxiways, etc.
“You can’t see as the captain of the aeroplane; you’re relying on them having a big picture of where all the aeroplanes are.”
Woodward said mistakes on the ground could have serious consequences.
“If there’s a mistake, that can lead to a near collision,” he said.
With the school holidays approaching, the staffing concerns could add further pressure to an airport already facing intense demand.
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