Overwork, burnout, and staff shortage are being cited, as among the many problems plaguing air traffic controllers, a situation made worse by the increase in air traffic in recent weeks.

The Jamaica Air Traffic Controllers Association said, despite efforts to get the Government to improve working conditions, the challenges remain.

Association President Kurt Solomon said with COVID-19 restrictions lifted, more planes are moving.

He said a request was made for additional measures to be implemented to handle the excess duties.

He said burnt-out workers going on sick leave is being misinterpreted as industrial action.

On Friday (April 22) the Industrial Dispute Tribunal issued an order to cease industrial action on air traffic controllers, citing reports of a sickout by workers.

However, the Air Traffic Controllers Association has questioned the issuing of the order when there is no dispute with the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority.