Overview

• The FAA faces a deficit of approximately 3,000 air traffic controllers, prompting the DOT to launch a comprehensive recruitment and retention plan.
• New hires will receive a 30% salary increase and a $5,000 bonus upon completing the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City.
• Bonuses are being offered to delay early retirements and incentivize controllers to work at less popular tower locations.
• The hiring process at the FAA Academy has been streamlined, with efforts to reduce the academy's historically high 35% trainee washout rate.
• DOT plans to announce air traffic control technology and infrastructure upgrades next week to support long-term system resilience.