Atlanta Air Traffic Tower Evacuated Amid Fire Alarm and Gas Odor
The air traffic control tower at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport was temporarily evacuated on Friday night due to a fire alarm and the detection of a gas odor. This incident was confirmed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Incident Overview
During the evacuation, air traffic control services were halted, leading to a condition known as “ATC Zero.” This indicates that no air traffic control services are being provided. Controllers communicated with pilots, informing them of the situation.
Evacuation Communication
- Controllers instructed pilots to switch to ground communications.
- One controller mentioned, “Everyone is going downstairs, so we’ll see what is happening.”
- The ground controller advised pilots to “just hold tight” during the evacuation.
Flight Operations Impacted
The evacuation caused a ground stop for flights headed to Hartsfield-Jackson. Consequently, departing flights had to be delayed, while only a few landed safely. Specifically, only five planes were recorded to have landed between 5:11 p.m. and 5:52 p.m., according to data from FlightAware.
Flight Conditions
- Flights in the air had to rely on approach controllers.
- A pilot from Greensboro, South Carolina, reported landing without typical control guidance.
- A lack of coordinated operations made the situation unusual, as no planes were authorized to take off during the incident.
Investigation and Resumption of Operations
The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department conducted an investigation at the control tower and later declared the area safe. Air traffic controllers resumed their duties shortly before 6 p.m., allowing regular operations to continue.
Ongoing Staffing Issues
While air traffic controllers are essential employees, there are ongoing staffing shortages reported across the country. However, staffing levels at Atlanta were adequate at the time of the incident despite the difficult operational circumstances.
