Albanian ATC

[Aviator2]

What is happening with Albanian ATC. I heard 5 controllers called in sick and then were immediately fired. Upon that it seems that a improvised work stoppage was called on by their colleagues. Authorities then arrested 24 or so controllers and put them in prison. 3 of them remain there as they are the union representatives. Is it true, can this really happen in a country under EASA supervision and aspiring to enter European union.

[ATC Watcher]

Check ATCEUC and IFATCA recent warnings and press releases ( avail also on Facebook ) explains everything . Turkey involved , although situation now seems controllers are back (under pressure) and 2 in jail one arrested at home . Does not look good.
Election week and political games being played. (For your Info Albania is not a member nor associate member of EASA.) .

[Aviator2]

Are the 2 controllers out of prison? What where they accused off to be in prison? Any accident occurred that has not been on the news?

[ATC Watcher]

Are the 2 controllers out of prison? What where they accused off to be in prison? Any accident occurred that has not been on the news?
No still there , one (a lady) in house arrest .all 3 Union board members for having allegedly organized the sick out. which a judge called an illegal strike.. The charges could see a 7 years prion sentence .
We are all very carefully watching this and put pressure on the background for their release and to get back to a form of normality .Most controllers are now back at work under enormous pressure and stress.
No accidents occurred .

[Aviator2]

And Albania wants to join the European union? Now I know why many European countries were against Albania joining. Seems like Judges and Police are being ruled and directed from the government. Hope all will resolve soon.

[Stockportcounty]

https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/albania-air-traffic-control-pilots-b1832672.html

[exlatccatsa]

I found this tonight.
https://ops.group/blog/atc-farm-out-must-be-prohibited/
Here s an excerptIf you’re overflying the Tirana FIR tonight, the Air Traffic Controller in whose hands the safety of your flight rests will be one of these three: a Turkish controller, who has just been drafted in and who has never seen the airspace before; or an Albanian controller who has been forced to work under huge duress, while colleagues remain in prison.

And if you think there will be a NOTAM to tell you about any of this, you’re mistaken. Albania does not want you to know.