Overview

• The planned departures account for roughly 3% of the FAA’s 46,000-strong workforce, according to an internal human-resources presentation.
• Frontline safety roles including air-traffic controllers and engineers are exempt, but officials warn the exodus could delay medical clearances for pilots and runway safety inspections.
• The FAA insists its safety-critical functions remain protected, stating that key positions are excluded from any hiring freezes or departure incentives.
• Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy unveiled a package of actions on May 1 aimed at accelerating recruitment and retention of air-traffic controllers.
• The agency has expanded hiring and onboarding for controllers, safety inspectors, mechanics and other support staff as part of broader modernization efforts.