Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

That paragraph is similar to one of the earlier ones.

The air traffic control system is now operating at 70% capacity. This is giving rise to delays during the peak morning period. The process of verifying, diagnosing and testing the repaired system is now under way. The IAA is satisfied it has found the problem, identified the software problem and now, though it is at 70% capacity, it will continue to test until it is 100% sure that everything is in operation. The IAA will not return to full operation until it is sure of that. Protection and safety is always the highest priority for air traffic control. The system performance and validation that is under way now takes time. If no further problems are encountered, it should be possible to restore full capability over the next 24 to 48 hours.

The present air traffic control system has been operated by the IAA at Dublin Airport for five years. This was the first instance of a failure of this kind. While the IAA has arrangements in place for contingencies, it is not practical to maintain a full back-up system to maintain 100% capability. As evidenced by the fact that this is the first instance of a systems failure in five years, the IAA says there is no safety case for it and the cost to users would be significant.

Members are aware that the aviation safety system comprises four key components, namely, airports, airlines, aircraft maintenance and the air traffic management systems. The IAA is satisfied that all components of the system are safe in accordance with international standards and practices, notwithstanding the present problems. There has never been any compromise of safety of aircraft or persons.

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