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with the hosting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation’s General Assembly, a legislator has said.
In a speech read on his behalf by former Air Traffic Controllers’ Association of Zimbabwe president, Mr Shadreck Gumbo, Senator Simon Khaya Moyo said their event was likely to result in more flights over Zimbabwean air space, therefore having an impact on the workload of air traffic controllers
“Air traffic controllers provide a critical service for Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe (CAAZ) and the country as a whole. Their dedication and commitment to duty and patriotism over the years is unquestionable. As I have implored before the management should find ways of improving working conditions of air traffic controllers.
“The organisation needs continuous upgrading of skills, equipment and specialised training to adequately equip air traffic controllers to cope with new challenges and expectations. The equipment used by the controllers is almost obsolete, a situation which is not acceptable at all,” said Ambassador Moyo, who is also the Zanu-PF chairman.
Ambassador Moyo, who is also a patron of the ATCAZ, bemoaned the fact that there was no improvement in the working conditions of air traffic controllers.
“The job evaluation appeals have taken too long to be concluded. I urge management to put this into finality without delay. A worker who is over- worked and uses sub-standard equipment is a threat to safety.
“It must be remembered that without air traffic controllers no aircraft will grace the skies. They are the nerve centre of air travel and therefore must be accorded appropriate remuneration and utmost respect,” said Cde Moyo.
ATCAZ president Mr Evans Makuku applauded the air traffic controllers for doing a great job.
“Air traffic controllers have done an enviable job by making sure the aviation has a positive outlook. Behind every aircraft movement there is an air traffic controller sitting somewhere in a control tower or room giving instructions to pilots as to the safe conduct of their flights.
“The annual International Civic Aviation Organisation audit saw 26 African countries mostly in Southern Africa being blacklisted but with Zimbabwe remaining as one of the safest air traffic space. As traffic controllers, it is our responsibility to maintain a safe expeditious and orderly movement of air traffic within the Zimbabwean space,” he said.
Online Reporter