Flights at Howard Hamilton International Airport, formerly Providenciales Airport, faced disruption yesterday as air traffic controllers executed a sickout, demanding improved monetary compensation and better working conditions.
Airport sources revealed that the orchestrated sickout disrupted normal operations, prompting swift responses from relevant authorities. In a press release yesterday, the Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) outlined comprehensive measures to address the ongoing situation.
The collective efforts to manage this crisis involved coordination among various agencies, including the Office of the Governor, the Office of the Premier, TCIAA, Royal Police Force, and Experience Turks and Caicos. Nikeva Ariza, spokesperson for TCIAA, emphasized their dedication to minimizing disruptions for travelers. Ariza stated, “Our law enforcement partners, the Royal Turks and Caicos Police Force, have affirmed their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of travelers, airport personnel, and the TCI community amidst the challenges posed by the action of the Air Traffic Controllers.”
As a precautionary measure, travelers were advised to stay informed about potential delays by checking with their respective airlines. The TCIAA assured the public that every effort was being made to resolve the situation promptly and minimize any inconvenience caused to passengers. Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds.
Acting Governor Her Excellency Anya Williams and Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick confirmed that Air Traffic Controllers staged a sick-out not only at Howard Hamilton International Airport, but also at JAGS McCartney International Airport in Grand Turk.
In a joint statement, the Acting Governor and Premier acknowledged the challenges faced by Air Traffic Controllers but noted that they had received two pay raises approximately two years ago. The statement emphasized the government’s commitment to conducting a comprehensive review of pay and benefits for all statutory bodies, with Ernst and Young (Jamaica) set to commence the review in March 2024.
Both leaders expressed their dedication to resolving the matter and ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the airports. Meetings with relevant stakeholders, including the Air Traffic Controllers Association, are ongoing to discuss the return to work and address the concerns raised by the controllers.
Minister for Immigration and Border Services Hon. Arlington Musgrove, currently returning from the Forty-Sixth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), attended a meeting yesterday to address the ongoing situation with the Air Traffic Controller Association, Acting Governor, Premier, and TCIAA leadership.
