ATLANTA — Recent aviation mishaps, including a temporary loss of radar and communication with pilots at a major U.S. airport, are sparking concern among air travelers at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.
The incident, which occurred in Philadelphia, rattled the air traffic control community so deeply that 20% of controllers there reportedly called in sick the following day. The ripple effect has left passengers across the country, including in Atlanta, questioning the safety of their sky travel.
“It’s definitely an area of concern for the average traveler, and it shouldn’t be,” said one passenger waiting to board at Hartsfield-Jackson.
Others, while aware of the risk, are trying to stay grounded. “It will always be in my mind and that worry will be back,” said another traveler. “However, thousands of planes touch down safely every day, every hour.”
One seasoned flier added, “I’m a seasoned traveler, so I’m not going to worry about that,” brushing off the recent concerns with confidence.
Still, many admit they’re flying on what one called “a wing and a prayer.”
In response to growing unease, the Federal Aviation Administration has pledged sweeping upgrades to the nation’s aging air traffic control infrastructure. The move aims to restore public confidence and ensure better safety measures are in place.
For now, as travelers continue to navigate crowded terminals and tight schedules, questions about safety remain top of mind.
WSBs Ashley Simmons contributed to this story