For air traffic controller letting kids do his job... what punishment is fair?

Question

It is all over the news that a JFK airport air traffic controller let his two children speak to pilots giving them directions for take-off.
Federal authorities are calling it the most outrageous breech of responsibility they've ever seen while the media pretty much seems to agree.
I kind of disagree. While it was certainly wrong, the kids, apparently did this just once each, as I understand it, on separate days, gave clear and concise, accurate information and were being closely watched and coached so as not to screw up. While I wouldn't want this repeated, I think the dad was not going to let anything dangerous happen, and probably should get suspended without pay for a few days or something, but not lose his job.
If someone was really put in danger, I would feel differently, but I think maybe people are overreacting in this specific case. But, what do you think?

doodler · Accepted Answer

Well knowing America, he will be found guilty of some new terrorism law and be sentenced to immediate execution...

I think that he's suffered enough as it is. Nobody was hurt and nobody would have gotten hurt... I think the reaction is just a demonstration from the airport that they take issues seriously and blah blah blah... It'll die down and he'll go back to his job - possibly even as employee of the month for getting them so much publicity...

? · Answer

First of all, its all about perspective and OBVIOUSLY you have a very jaded perspective on family, marriage and kids. You're not alone, a lot of people feel this way and its often due to growing up in a dysfunctional family atmosphere with unhappy parents. I'll start with your first premise on the college degree and job. If you determine before even entering college what you're passionate about as a person, and what YOU value, NOT what society thinks you should value, then you can get an exciting degree which will allow you to get a good paying job doing something you ACTUALLY LOVE DOING (I have this). Of course working 9 to 5 behind a desk and a cubicle isn't attractive or alluring to ANYBODY, but it doesn't have to be that way. As far as a home and mortgage, people become "trapped" as you say in this regard when they purchase a home and mortgage that's ABOVE their means. If you (and your spouse) make enough money to pay your mortgage every month on time, all other bills, go out and have fun/entertainment, take regular vacations AND still bank some for the future, then how is a mortgage trapping you? And as far as children, if you see them as financial obligations, rather than and extension of the love you have for your spouse, and extra people in your life to love, then either you're really young, or you're just not the parenting type (and that's ok because not everyone is). And if you and your wife earn a decent living and budget properly, it will reduce the arguments over finances significantly. My wife and I RARELY argue over money. I know the life you consider "ho hum" isn't for everyone, but you've essentially reduced every positive thing about that life into a negative. I don't know what you consider a better or more exciting life but lets say for instance yours is traveling all over the world, dating many different women and never settling down and never having kids. Sounds fun huh? But how about the fact that you'll NEVER feel grounded or like you have a place that's your own. You'll never have that special person in your life that you can share your hopes, dreams, goals, joys, pains and fears with. In fact, you can't even count on that person to really be there for you AT ALL when you need them most because they aren't "yours". You won't have the joy of watching a baby you've created grow, kiss your cheek and tell you they love you, learn to tie their shoes, read, write, ride a bike, go on their first date, go to high school prom, get married and start their own life. You see how I quickly made the alternative look just as bad as the picture you've painted? Its all about perspective and what YOU as an individual value in life.

Katalex · Answer

While completely irresponsible, I have a sneaking suspicion that this happens more often then the authorities think.  OK the air traffic controller allowed his children under supervision to send directions to the pilot of Jetblue. It's not like he left them there to go get a cup of coffee and come back 20 minutes later.

Alion · Answer

A reprimand and suspension would definitely be in order. It may seem harmless but the fact is the
controller is being paid a great deal of money to safeguard people's lives. It's not a time to let his kids play grown-up. If he wants to let them know more about his job,let him go to their school on Career Day.

Divide et impera · Answer

Just a rollocking (or, as you type, a week's suspension) will do...for as you said, the wee wean would have been ordered by his dad to say what appeared to be the correct words. There are some morons on here who have asked the same question...with the current catch-all word 'terrorism' therein. Ho hum...
Your question is sensible...but this is Yahoo! Answers. Live with it!

There will be many answers - like the dear above me - on your case...with some as serious as you like!

Anonymous · Answer

transfer to a small airport in Montana.

Anonymous · Answer

He should be executed.

For air traffic controller letting kids do his job... what punishment is fair?

7 Answers