EazyinWay - Air Traffic Controller at Paris CDG Shouts ‘Free Palestine’ to El Al Pilots, Prompting InvestigationAir Traffic Controller at Paris CDG Shouts ‘Free Palestine’ to El Al Pilots, Prompting Investigation
Air Traffic Controller at Paris CDG Shouts ‘Free Palestine’ to El Al Pilots, Prompting Investigation
An air traffic controller at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport is under investigation for reportedly shouting “Free Palestine” over the radio to the crew of an El Al flight shortly after its landing. The Israeli airline's pilots highlighted the unexpected nature of this comment during standard communications and promptly reported the situation to El Al’s management. In response, El Al decried the controller's behavior as “unprofessional and inappropriate,” asserting that they are taking the matter seriously and coordinating with relevant authorities in Israel and France.
In light of the incident, France’s Minister of Transport announced that the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC) has initiated an administrative inquiry. Existing recordings have confirmed the incident, and the air traffic controller's ability to work has been suspended pending the outcome of a disciplinary procedure, though specifics on potential penalties or the individual’s identity remain undisclosed. Experts have pointed out that such political expressions during official air traffic communications are extremely unorthodox and violate professional standards.
From a transportation perspective, maintaining clear and professional communication between pilots and air traffic controllers is essential for flight safety. Any disruption in these communications can lead to significant risks during critical phases of flight. It is crucial for aviation authorities to enforce strict professional conduct to ensure that air traffic control remains a neutral and focused environment for operations, protecting both aircraft safety and public confidence in air travel.