San Carlos Airport's air traffic control tower will go dark after all controllers resigned due to a pay dispute with their employer. Airport spokesperson Davi Howard highlighted the inadequacy of the offered salary compared to the previous provider. This raises safety concerns, especially given the airport's proximity to high-traffic San Francisco International Airport. Although operations can continue under uncontrolled conditions, safety experts emphasize the necessity of control in congested airspace. Airport management is optimistic about reaching a new agreement soon and has preparations in place to ensure continued safety amid potential staff shortages.
"It was significantly less than what the previous company was offering them. So, the controllers declined the package," said San Carlos Airport spokesperson Davi Howard.
"You just cannot have an airport, San Carlos Airport, functioning in close proximity to an airport that sees the type of traffic that San Francisco airport has," said Supervisor Ray Mueller.
"It's still safe to fly in an uncontrolled airfield. It's done everyday. Across the nation there are hundreds of uncontrolled airfields," said aviation consultant Mike McCarron.
"We're confident a deal will be reached soon, but we have a contingency plan in place to make sure the tower remains staffed."
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