Air traffic controllers told 'No naps'

INDIANAPOLIS, Sept. 10 (UPI) -- Air traffic controllers on late-night shifts at Indianapolis International Airport have been warned they face suspension if they sleep during rest periods.

The union representing the controllers said the no-nap crackdown could pose a safety hazard by depriving controllers of needed sleep, the Indianapolis Star reported.

The high-altitude center near the airport has busy times at 1 a.m. and 4 a.m., because of the schedules of air cargo carriers. In the past, controllers have often tried to catch a little sleep between peak periods.

But a Federal Aviation Administration memo this week told controllers that sleeping during paid breaks could be regarded as a waste of public money and a potential safety hazard.

"If there's an emergency, we don't want any groggy controllers on the job," said FAA spokesman Tony Molinaro.