Social media 'mocking' could drive ATC staff away

Outgoing airport director warns against online posting

Air traffic controllers are fed-up of being 'mocked' on social media when flights are delayed or cancelled. 

That's the view of the outgoing airport director who was one of the guests on the first day of the Isle of Man Government Conference (17 September). 

Gary Cobb has also dismissed the chance of easyJet pulling out of the Island saying all of the airlines are 'pretty content' at present. 

But he says comments posted online can cause distress and end up driving much needed ATC staff away from their roles. 

Brian Thomson, the managing director of the Steam Packet Company, was also one of the guest speakers. 

He apologised to the audience for recent delays and cancellations and said the recent collision between the Manxman and the berth at Heysham was unfortunate. 

John Moss has this report: 

The Isle of Man Government Conference continues today (18 September) at The Comis Hotel.