The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), a UN agency, is said to have completed its audit of Indian aviation last week and is learnt to have red-flagged the severe shortage of air traffic controllers (ATCOs). Although the final audit report may take 90 days for completion, once out it could trigger a global fear over flying in the country and downgrading of Indian airports. Air traffic controllers are specially-trained personnel who are, among other things, ensure airport and flight safety. Their shortage means that Indian airports are sitting duck for any terrorist strike.