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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.
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