On July 21, 2025, an unusual event shook El Dorado International Airport in Bogotá: a minor entered the control tower and allegedly issued instructions to air traffic control personnel. The Colombian Civil Aviation Authority (Aerocivil) has launched an investigation to clarify what happened, determine responsibilities, and ensure that such an act—which directly compromises the country’s air safety—is not repeated.
What Happened in the Control Tower?
According to official information, the minor gained unauthorized access to one of the airport’s most sensitive areas: the control tower. There, they allegedly gave orders to the air traffic controllers on duty at the time. While Aerocivil stated that air operations were never at risk, the incident constitutes a serious violation of aviation safety regulations and a complete breach of established protocols for the safe operation of air traffic in Colombia.
Immediate Measures: License Suspensions and Disciplinary Proceedings
Given the severity of the case, Aerocivil acted swiftly. The first step was the temporary suspension of the aviation licenses of the controllers involved in the incident. This measure was formalized through Resolution 1923 on July 25, 2025.
Simultaneously, the Office of Internal Disciplinary Control opened case file number 2025/178 to investigate the actions of five employees allegedly involved. Authorities aim to determine whether these employees allowed the minor’s access and to what extent they compromised the air operations of the country’s busiest airport.
Transparency, Oversight, and Potential Crimes
Aerocivil also announced that it will notify the relevant oversight bodies to determine whether those involved committed criminal acts. This step ensures that not only disciplinary failures are addressed but also potential criminal liabilities are investigated.
The agency reiterated its commitment to constant vigilance and continuous improvement, strengthening internal mechanisms to safeguard the operational security of Colombia’s aviation system.
Air Safety: An Unwavering Commitment
“This situation represents a serious violation of the trust placed in us by passengers, crews, and system operators,” Aerocivil emphasized in a statement. The authority also stressed that these events do not reflect the conduct of the majority of air traffic control professionals, who carry out their duties with commitment and adherence to current regulations.
The message is clear: any behavior compromising the integrity of the air system will be investigated and sanctioned without exception.
What happened at El Dorado is not just an isolated failure but a warning sign about access control mechanisms in critical facilities.
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