A flight traveling from Paris to Corsica was forced into an unexpected mid-air delay when the sole air traffic controller at Ajaccio Airport reportedly fell asleep while on duty. The incident, which unfolded late in the evening, left the aircraft circling above the Mediterranean Sea for nearly 18 minutes before a safe landing could be arranged.

The aircraft, operated by Air Corsica, had already departed Paris Orly after a short delay and was scheduled to land at Ajaccio’s Napoléon Bonaparte Airport. However, as it approached the destination, the crew noticed that the runway lights were switched off and repeated attempts to contact the control tower went unanswered.

Unable to receive clearance, the pilots followed standard emergency procedures and maintained a holding pattern while seeking assistance. During this period, airport ground services were alerted. Fire department staff were sent to the control tower, where they discovered the lone controller asleep at his post.

Once awakened, the controller promptly switched on the runway lights and authorized the aircraft to land. Despite the confusion, the flight eventually touched down safely without injury or damage.

Authorities have since launched an investigation into the unusual lapse. Preliminary reports confirmed that the controller tested negative for alcohol. However, disciplinary action is being considered for negligence.

The incident has sparked debate about staffing practices and fatigue management within air traffic control systems, particularly at smaller airports where only one controller may be responsible for operations during night shifts. Aviation experts stress that while modern aircraft and trained crews can manage such emergencies, situations like this highlight vulnerabilities in safety oversight when adequate backup systems are not in place.