Air traffic controllers to go on strike

Air traffic controllers warned that they will go on strike as early as 30 January 2009. The controllers sent out a notice alerting all flight crews that once aircraft are 75 mi/120 km from the airport, traffic control service will no longer be provided. However, thus far, there have been no reports of disruptions. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the strikers have several outstanding issues to resolve, including wage increases, overtime payments, health issues and refunds for sick leave. Air traffic controllers have threatened to strike over these issues on several occasions in the past; however, they have yet to follow through with the threats.