FAA Implements New Rest Rules for Air Traffic Controllers
The new regulations aim to address fatigue by mandating increased rest periods between shifts, following recent safety concerns.
- FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker announced new rest requirements for air traffic controllers, effective in 90 days, to combat fatigue and enhance safety.
- The changes include a mandatory 10 hours off between shifts and 12 hours before a midnight shift, based on recommendations from a panel of fatigue experts.
- Recent near-miss incidents and a rise in air traffic controller fatigue complaints prompted the FAA to take action.
- The National Air Traffic Controllers Association expressed concerns about the immediate implementation of new rules potentially leading to understaffed shifts.
- The FAA is also focusing on increasing its workforce, aiming to hire 1,800 more controllers by the end of 2024, to alleviate the workload and reduce fatigue risks.