Guyana: Air traffic controller abandoned post
GEORGETOWN, Guyana (AP) — Officials say an air traffic controller abandoned his post at Guyana's international airport as a jetliner was approaching the runway, forcing the plane to circle until a substitute arrived.
Aviation authorities say the controller was frustrated that a colleague did not arrive on time to relieve him an eight-hour shift. He had also apparently complained of feeling ill.
A Caribbean Airlines Boeing 737 from Trinidad had to circle the Cheddi Jagan International Airport for 10 minutes until a manager got to the tower and guided it to a safe landing.
In a Sunday statement, Guyana's transport ministry said it has launched an investigation.
Civil Aviation Authority director Zulfikar Mohamed says the situation ended "without any danger to passengers or anyone" but a probe is needed.
