New deal for air controllers

A NEW Retention Allowance for Air Traffic Control Officers (ATCOs) took effect on April 1.

The allowance aims to maintain Air Traffic Control capability, contribute to retention and encourage personnel to undertake service in more demanding locations.

ATCOs who hold a tower or approach rating and received the previous ATCO Retention Allowance will benefit from a non-reduction provision that allows them to continue to receive a total of $15,000 a year. The provision will continue until April 2009.

Personnel who did not receive the previous Retention Allowance will receive the new allowance but with no non-reduction provisions. However, they will receive payment for each level they attain.

Those eligible for the non-reduction provision, but who have not gained the qualifications for all of the allowances by April 1, 2009, will have their total allowance rate reduced to match qualifications.

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