The Ghana Air Traffic Safety Electronics Association (GhATSEA) has suspended a nationwide strike that was set to begin Thursday, following what it described as “constructive” talks with the Ghana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) governing board and management.

In a statement signed by President Engr. David Annan Mensah, the union said the decision to call off the strike came after “fruitful discussions” aimed at resolving longstanding grievances over poor working conditions and stalled management action.

“Following constructive engagement with the GCAA governing board and management, we have decided to suspend our planned strike action, which was scheduled to take effect from October 30,” the statement said.

The suspension averts what could have been a major disruption to air traffic operations across the country. The engineers, who are responsible for maintaining air navigation systems and safety electronics, had threatened an indefinite work stoppage over inequitable job placements, unfair salary structures, and unresolved welfare concerns dating back more than 15 years.

GhATSEA said it remained “optimistic” that continued dialogue with authorities would lead to a “lasting resolution” of its grievances. The group also expressed appreciation to all parties involved in the negotiations, including GCAA’s Acting Director-General Rev. Stephen Wilfred Arthur and Acting Deputy Director-General (Technical) Theophilus Aryee Ago, for their “dedication and leadership.”

The association emphasized that air safety would not be compromised amid the ongoing talks. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the provision of air navigation services across the country,” the statement said.

GhATSEA also thanked the media and the public for their patience during the dispute and reaffirmed its pledge to ensure “the continued safe and efficient operation of Ghana’s airspace.”