The International Federation of Air Traffic Controllers Associations (IFATCA) said that “the international community, the United Nations, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and other global entities must take decisive and immediate action to prevent further violations and ensure the safety and well-being of air traffic controllers in Yemen.”
This came after the “Israeli” aggression targeted Sana’a International Airport, destroyed its control tower, and injured a number of workers.
The Union considered the targeting of Sana’a airport “a stark reminder of the urgent need to take concerted action to protect those who ensure the safety of aviation, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
It pointed out that this “worrying” attack confirms the profound risks faced by these professionals who act as neutral actors, and continue to work under dangerous conditions to ensure the safety of air operations and lives under international law.
The statement stressed that targeting air traffic controllers or the infrastructure they rely on not only puts lives at risk, but also violates established global standards, declaring its support for its members and the Yemeni Air Traffic Controllers Association (YATCA).
It renewed its commitment to defending the safety, security and welfare of air traffic controllers worldwide, and said: “We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting the principles of safety and neutrality that support the crucial work carried out by air traffic controllers everywhere.”
