US Aviation Sector Requests Emergency Funding As ATC Staffing Fails To Meet Target
The aviation industry has called for emergency financial support.
The FAA Air Traffic Controller training process
Becoming an air traffic controller in the United States is a multistep process that requires applicants to meet strict eligibility requirements, undergo intensive training, and complete extensive on-the-job experience before being certified. The FAA has established a structured training pathway to ensure controllers are well-prepared to handle the pressures and responsibilities of managing air traffic.
From FAA.gov, here are the eligibility requirements and application process:
- Candidates must be US citizens under 31 years old at the time of application and pass medical and security background checks.
- They must complete the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative (AT-CTI) program or have prior air traffic control experience (such as military service) or pass the FAA’s Air Traffic Selection and Training (AT-SAT) exam.
- The AT-SAT is a cognitive test that evaluates an applicant’s ability to multitask, solve problems, and process information under pressure.
Only around 10% of all applicants meet these requirements.
Initial training at the FAA academy
After screening and acceptance to begin training, candidates attend training at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City. The program lasts between 12 and 15 weeks and covers aviation regulations, radar operation, air traffic separation, emergency procedures through classroom instruction as well as simulation exercises.
On-the-job training and certification
After graduating from the academy trainees are assigned to one of over 300 facilities nationwide where they begin as developmental controllers undergoing additional on-the-job training which can last from one to three years depending on facility complexity before passing final certification exams allowing them work independently.
The growing need for air traffic controllers
There is bipartisan support among lawmakers aimed at improving ATC training processes with legislation introduced by senators such as Jeanne Shaheen which would increase funding by $100 million over five years for tower simulators reducing certification time by approximately27% according to Reuters news
"Expand workforce pipeline enhance facilities equipment improve recruitment" said Democrat Jeanne Shaheen regarding her proposal
Despite their importance there remains significant shortages currently estimated around3500 below ideal levels due various factors including retirements increasing demand high failure rates stress burnout among others
"This staffing shortage has been known challenge over decade committed solving streamlined hiring first step deliver President Trump agenda prioritize safety modernize government" said US Transportation Sean P Duffy FAA news release
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