WILLEMSTAD - The Dutch Caribbean Air Navigation Service Provider (DC-ANSP) continues to face a persistent staff shortage, exacerbated by a significant increase in workload due to the growth of the tourism sector and the associated air traffic.
The challenges for DC-ANSP, responsible for air traffic control in Curaçao and Bonaire, are diverse and complex. As a company, DC-ANSP oversees three air traffic control facilities, including the air traffic control center in Curaçao and two control towers, one located at Hato and the other at Flamingo Airport in Bonaire.
After a dramatic decrease in activities during the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization is now confronted with a drastic increase in air traffic. However, efforts to expand the team of air traffic controllers remain unsuccessful.
In 2019, attempts were made to attract foreign personnel with the help of an American company, but this was met with resistance from the union representing the interests of air traffic controllers. To date, the situation remains unchanged; DC-ANSP is unable to adequately fill the vacancies.
Vacancies on the organization's website attract little interest, indicating an underlying problem. The terms of employment and the intensity of the work, requiring a high level of concentration and leaving little room for a social life, seem to deter potential candidates. Furthermore, the aging workforce within the department contributes to the problem, as the natural attrition is not offset by new, young talents.
This staff shortage has direct consequences for the capacity of air traffic control on the islands, posing risks to the safety and efficiency of air traffic. Minister Cooper, responsible for aviation, claims not to have direct control over this independent entity. What the minister does not mention is that he is responsible for allocating a sufficient budget.
Critics argue that the budget for air traffic control has been insufficient for years to carry out the tasks, responsibilities, and ambitions adequately.