Air Traffic Control Operator Experiences Unusual Delay Caused by Falling Asleep

In an unexpected turn of events, a flight operated by Air Corsica was forced to circle above Ajaccio's Napoleón-Bonaparte Airport for nearly an hour on a recent night. The incident, which occurred at around 00:35, was caused by the sole air traffic controller on duty falling asleep, leading to unanswered radio calls and a review of safety measures at the airport.

The Airbus A320 aircraft maintained sufficient fuel reserves to remain airborne safely during the delay. Despite the circumstances, the flight ultimately landed without incident, with passengers remaining calm throughout the ordeal. Some even joked about an unplanned "night-time sightseeing" tour.

Upon finding no response at the control tower, airport firefighters contacted local police. Meanwhile, runway lights at the airport were switched off during the incident, and pilots followed standard holding procedures until the runway could be accessed.

Tests ruled out alcohol or drugs as the cause of the controller's sleepiness, suggesting exhaustion was the likely culprit. As a result, the French civil aviation authority, DGAC, has announced it will review and introduce measures to prevent a recurrence of the incident.

These measures include internal investigations, medical checks, disciplinary measures, and a commitment to review safety and air traffic monitoring procedures. Additionally, adjustments to staffing levels, modifications to shift schedules, and the implementation of additional monitoring or backup protocols within the tower are expected.

Authorities are also reviewing procedures at Napoleón-Bonaparte Airport, with a particular focus on the presence of only one controller during overnight hours being considered a potential safety concern. Furthermore, investigators continue to examine the sequence of events to determine whether staffing and operational procedures meet current safety standards.

In response to the incident, the DGAC has also announced its intention to implement additional safeguards such as mandatory secondary monitoring or alert systems. Air Corsica is cooperating fully with investigators in their efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of its passengers and crew.

As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and safety in the aviation industry. The DGAC's commitment to review and improve procedures is a positive step towards ensuring the continued safety of air travel.