The Association of Icelandic Air Traffic Controllers (FÍF) has formally announced an overtime ban set to commence at midnight on November 25. The move signals just how urgent a contract agreement between the air traffic controllers and Isavia has become.
In a recent statement, FÍF made clear its frustration over the lack of a contract, a situation that has dragged on since the beginning of the year. That prolonged standoff carries real risks — not just for Isavia, but for the many air carriers that depend on Iceland’s air traffic control system.
A Disheartening Development
“It is very disappointing that no resolution was achieved during the meeting between FÍF, Isavia, and the Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise (SA) last Sunday,” the announcement stated. The union says it felt it had little choice but to impose the overtime ban, even while talks continue — the hope being that the added pressure will keep dialogue alive and head off more serious action from its members.
FÍF has also raised concerns about a longer-term problem: Isavia has been steadily losing its competitive standing, driven by poor recruitment numbers and high stress levels among existing staff. The union wants that trend reversed, both to protect Icelandic interests and to ensure the country maintains a strong air traffic control workforce going forward.
