The Alliance Calls on the Russian Federation to Release Moscow-Vnukovo Controllers Immediately

The Global Air Traffic Controllers Alliance calls on the Russian Federation to immediately release the air traffic controllers who have been detained in connection with the Moscow-Vnukovo incident.

Air traffic controllers operate in a highly regulated, safety-critical environment. When incidents occur, the aviation safety community depends on transparent, just processes — processes that protect the rights of those involved while enabling thorough safety investigations.

The detention of operational controllers is deeply concerning and risks undermining the no-blame, safety-first culture that is essential to effective aviation safety reporting and investigation. Controllers must be free to participate fully in safety investigations without fear of criminal prosecution.

We urge the Russian Federation to:

• Release the detained controllers immediately
• Ensure a transparent and fair legal process
• Respect international standards for aviation safety investigation
• Protect the professional rights of all parties involved

The Global ATC Alliance will raise this matter through all available international channels, including the ITF and relevant ICAO forums, until a satisfactory resolution is reached.