ATC
NATCA: Controller Shortages Will Cause More Disruptions
Controller staffing is down 10 percent over past decade
Controller at Dulles International Airport (Photo: Bill Carey)
FAA controller staff reached 14,000 this year with the hiring of 1,800 in fiscal year 2024. © Bill Carey/AIN

The National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) is emphasizing the urgency of addressing an ATC staffing shortage issue in the U.S. Noting the controller workforce has shrunk by 10 percent over the last decade, NATCA agreed with airline executive concerns reported after last week’s Global Aerospace Summit in Washington, D.C., that travel disruptions could continue for at least five more years as a result.

“The effect that air traffic controller staffing shortages has had on air travel this summer is well known, and although there has been an increased focus on training, the hiring and training process to overcome the staffing shortage will take years,” NATCA warned, noting that currently, many controllers work mandatory overtime, including 10-hour shifts six days a week.

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