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US faces ongoing air traffic controller shortage impacting flight safety

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US faces ongoing air traffic controller shortage impacting flight safety
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Air traffic controllers are essential to the US aviation industry, managing over 45,000 flights daily. However, a persistent shortage of these professionals has led to delays and safety incidents at major airports across the country. This issue is putting pressure on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement changes.

According to NPR, a report from June 2023 by the United States Department of Transportation Inspector General found that 77% of air traffic control facilities critical for daily operations were understaffed. The FAA estimates that there will be 1,000 fewer fully certified controllers in ten years compared to today. With less than 200 new controllers expected to join, this could result in a deficit of 800 controllers.

The shortage is attributed mainly to the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many air traffic controllers to retire amid reduced flight operations. As demand rebounded post-pandemic, airlines increased capacity quickly, resulting in an increase in daily flights. Airport Industry Review notes that early retirements and halted hiring during the pandemic have had lasting effects on staffing levels.

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To manage the increased volume of flights, some air traffic controllers face mandatory overtime and six-day work weeks. Reuters highlights concerns about fatigue contributing to safety-related incidents. Since May 2024, there have been 1,115 runway incursions and over 180 operational incidents linked to controller decisions.

High-profile near misses include a Southwest Airlines flight narrowly avoiding a Delta aircraft at New Orleans’ Louis Armstrong International Airport and close calls involving American Airlines at San Francisco International Airport and Dallas.

In response to these challenges, the FAA appointed a panel of experts in December 2023 to address controller fatigue using current sleep science for scheduling improvements. Staffing shortages have also caused significant delays at major hubs like Newark Liberty International Airport due to staffing being below targeted levels.

Efforts are underway by the FAA's Air Traffic Control Organization Chief Operating Officer: “While we have a long way to go, many of the facilities are much healthier than they were previously.” Industry representatives have met with Congress and FAA officials recommending ways to improve recruitment pipelines into air traffic control roles.

As aviation continues its post-pandemic growth trajectory, addressing this shortage is crucial for ensuring safe and reliable airline operations nationwide.

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