Former ATC officer to meet minister as update given on airport's "special attention" status

DOI says team at Ronaldsway focussed on ensuring safe operations

The Department of Infrastructure has provided an update on a 'special attention' status applied to the Isle of Man Airport.

It follows questions raised by a former Air Traffic Controller about the safety of Ronaldsway.

Sue Scott phoned Manx Radio's Mannin Line on Friday, 16 January, 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.

Read more HERE.

A DOI spokesperson says: 'In January 2026, the Isle of Man Civil Aviation Administration removed the Isle of Man Airport’s 'Special Attention' status in relation to its safety management system as a result of the completion of a corrective action plan.

'However, the overall regulatory status remains 'Special Attention' in relation to its Air Traffic Services, which was applied in August 2025 following an oversight audit and in recognition of ongoing pressures around staffing and training.

'The Airport remains committed to building on the positive work undertaken over recent years to strengthen and continuously improve its safety management system and this reflects the sustained efforts of teams across the Airport estate. Day-to-day operations at the Isle of Man Airport are undertaken by teams of qualified, experienced and dedicated staff whose sole focus is ensuring safe operations in partnership with its airlines, operators and third parties.

'The Department is aware of online commentary relating to historic issues at the airport. It would not be appropriate to comment on individual matters relating to safety or personnel, however, the Department remains committed to ensuring that all staff are supported in their roles with established processes in place to enable safety concerns to be raised.'

Meet the minister

Sue Scott - who spoke out about the conditions which saw her leave Ronaldsway - says she's now looking forward to meeting the new infrastructure minister.

The former minister, Michelle Haywood offered to meet Mrs Scott - following her Mannin Line appearance - to speak through the issues raised. On Monday, however, she was replaced by Glenfaba and Peel MHK Tim Crookall.

Speaking to Manx Radio, Mrs Scott says: "I’ve been quite overwhelmed by the reaction since I called the Mannin Line, I was not expecting the level of interest my call has generated.

"A lot has changed on the political landscape during the past week but the issues at the airport do remain and I would be glad to meet with the new minister, Mr Crookall; I hope the insights I can share will be of use to him.  

"An approach has been made and I am looking forward to the meeting."