Int’l pilots group issues safety warning about Spanish airspace

Pilots warn of safety concerns over Spain

BRUSSELS — The world’s largest pilots’ group says a pay dispute between authorities and air traffic controllers in Spain is raising concerns about the safety of its airspace.

The International Federation of Airline Pilots Associations says the dispute could cause increased tension in the controller’s work place, unanticipated shortages of air traffic controllers and unexpected delays.

Last week, Spain’s government said it was ending the controllers’ autonomy and control over their salaries, which average 375,000 euros ($513,400) a year in a country suffering an economic crisis, including high unemployment.

The IFAPA says pilots should use caution in the region, including considering taking extra fuel and paying special attention to communications with controllers.