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2mo ago

FAA Launches Hiring Drive to Address Air Traffic Controller Shortage

The initiative includes higher starting salaries, a streamlined hiring process, and calls for retired controllers to return to work.

The air traffic control tower and some American Airlines planes are pictured at the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, in the aftermath of the collision of American Eagle flight 5342 and a Black Hawk helicopter that crashed into the Potomac River, in Washington, U.S., February 2, 2025. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz/File Photo
A general view at Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, California, is seen in a 2022 file photo.

Overview

  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy announced a plan to increase air traffic controller starting salaries by 30% and shorten the hiring process from eight steps to five.
  • The FAA is currently 3,500 air traffic controllers short of its target staffing level, with over 90% of control towers understaffed, according to recent reports.
  • Elon Musk urged retired air traffic controllers to return to work, though federal law limits their eligibility based on age and medical requirements.
  • The staffing shortage has been linked to increased workloads, with controllers working overtime and six-day weeks, raising concerns about aviation safety after recent crashes and near-misses.
  • While the hiring initiative has been welcomed by airlines, experts and unions stress the need for long-term solutions to address training timelines and retention challenges.