Napping for controllers on table

WASHINGTON, April 12 (UPI) -- With the recent instance of an air traffic controller in Washington sleeping on the job, the debate about controllers napping on duty is heating up.

The Wall Street Journal reports the Federal Aviation Administration, which opposes controllers napping even while away from their work stations on breaks, is at odds with advocates who contend naps actually would enhance performance and safety.

The debate heated up after a controller supervisor fell asleep during his overnight shift at Reagan National Airport in Washington last month, forcing two passenger jets to land at the facility without guidance. The controller told investigators he had just dozed off.

A two-year study commissioned by the National Air Traffic Controllers Association concluded "controlled napping" would be a good idea. FAA officials, however, have said they fear such naps would lead to disorientation and endanger travelers. There also are concerns about the impact a napping schedule would have on the agency's budget.

Peter Gimbrere, the controllers union point man on the issue, told the Journal he's optimistic the FAA eventually will come around.