Airport Security Must Cover Control Units

Security measures at airports should not be limited to aircraft and the terminals but should also include air traffic control units, an expert has advised.

Foster Danso, President of the Ghana Air Traffic Controllers Association (GHATCA), warned that inadequate security for such units could render them vulnerable for terrorists to capture and lead to disastrous consequences.

He was delivering a speech to mark international Air Traffic Controller Day, which was observed in Accra last Friday, under the theme, 'Safety and Security First and Always Top Priority'.

Air traffic controllers are responsible for directing the take-off and landing of aircraft at airports to avoid collusion.

Mr. Danso said the global shortage of air traffic controllers and increases in the volume of air traffic were some of the factors that undermine air safety.

He lauded the efforts of his colleagues in the sub-region in ensuring a credible track record in air safety but added that they should be more responsible in the discharge of their duties.

"Our mistake can cause the destruction of the precious lives and property entrusted into our care," he said.

The Minister of State for Aviation, Mrs Gloria Akuffo, also commended the level of competence on the part of air traffic controllers.

She promised that the government would provide vital tools and equipment to enhance the work of Ghana's air traffic controllers.

The celebration also attracted participants from Togo and Benin.