Former air traffic controller speaks out about airport issues

Mannin Line caller questions infrastructure minister over Ronaldsway 'special attention' status

A former air traffic control officer has spoken out about what she calls a 'toxic work environment' which saw her leave Ronaldsway.

Sue Scott phoned Manx Radio's Mannin Line on Friday, pushing the infrastructure minister for more details about why the airport was placed under 'special attention' by the Isle of Man Civil Aviation Authority in 2019.

Michelle Haywood said the suspension of training led to Air Traffic Control Services being placed under special measures, a status which (as of her latest update) had been 'de-escalated'.

Mrs Scott said that issue concerned the ATC unit alone and questioned whether a separate 'special attention' notice on the airport - which she says was issued due to the absence of a documented safety management system - was still active. That's something the minister said she would seek clarification on and confirm to Manx Radio in due course. 

Later in the conversation, Mrs Scott revealed she was one of four ATC Officers to leave Ronaldsway in recent years, describing it as "the worst managed, and least safe" airport she'd come across in over 43 years in the industry.

Minister Haywood said: "I'm as confident as I can be that the airport operations are safe and the team down there were working their way through the issues identified."

You can listen to the full exchange below:

Speaking with Manx Radio following Mannin Line, Mrs Scott said: "I felt Dr Haywood was trying her best to provide the right answers, but it was clear that she did not have a full grasp of the situation.  

"It's difficult for her as she is relying on information that she has been given; but I believe she has been misled.  I do intend to accept her offer to meet."

Manx Radio has contacted the Department of Infrastructure for a response.