After it was revealed earlier today that an air traffic controller at JFK let a child direct planes on February 16, the Post is reporting that the same controller let a different kid do it the next day. On February 17, a minor, believed to be the air controller’s child, talked to two planes from the control tower. The FAA suspended both the controller and a supervisor today, but did not release their names.
“This behavior is not acceptable and does not demonstrate the kind of professionalism expected from all FAA employees,” the FAA said in a statement. The agency would not comment on the incident beyond the statement.
The incidents took place during February school vacation, as — in one exchange from the audio clips that were posted online — the controller says, laughing, “That’s what you get, guys, when the kids are out of school.” At a different point, the child says, “JetBlue 171 contact departure,” to which the pilot responds: “Over to departure JetBlue 171, awesome job!”
Audio Indicates Kid Directed Planes at NY Airport [NYT]
Second child directed air traffic at JFK; 2 suspended [NYP]
