U.S. FAA plans to hire 1,500 air traffic controllers in 2023

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is addressing staffing shortages across the US as it plans to hire approximately 1,500 air traffic controllers this year and another 1,800 next year. According to the National Air Traffic Controller Association (NATCA), two in 10 air traffic controller positions are unfilled nationwide, while staffing levels are at a 30-year low.

Aspiring controllers need to meet eligibility requirements such as being a US citizen, speaking clear English, and relocating to an FAA facility based on staffing needs. Entry-level applicants must complete training courses and spend several months at the FAA Academy before being placed in locations across the country. Salaries increase based on factors such as location and complexity of the airspace.

The staffing shortage has resulted in several delays and close calls, prompting the FAA to reinforce safety protocols such as more supervisor oversight and extra controller training for “unusual circumstances.” The FAA has also asked airlines to reduce the number of flights into New York area airports due to the Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility operating at only 54% of its staffing target.

The agency has warned that overall delays in the region could increase by 45% during the 2023 summer season. JetBlue stated that it is pleased with the FAA’s proactive approach to reduce disruption to summer travel and solve the staffing shortages. The FAA is collaborating with NATCA and industry stakeholders on a permanent fix to understaffing issues.