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FAA expands simulation systems amid air traffic controller shortage

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FAA expands simulation systems amid air traffic controller shortage
Policy
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Nick Daniels NATCA President | National Air Traffic Controllers Association

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is implementing Tower Simulation Systems (TSS) to address the challenges of air traffic control staff shortages and training deficiencies. This initiative is part of U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy’s strategy to increase air controller staffing levels.

According to the FAA, 111 standalone tower simulators are currently operational at 95 sites across the United States. Technology upgrades have been completed at 56 of these locations, including Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Recently, Newark's air control system failure left controllers without radar and radio, leading many staff members to take leave, exacerbating staffing issues.

TSS provides trainees with a platform to practice various job-related scenarios safely. The systems allow trainees to experience complex airport configurations and practice relevant safety trends, runway crossing coordination, and specific traffic direction scenarios. A 2021 study indicated that simulators could reduce new hire training time by 27% and help previously certified controllers adapt to new facilities 21% faster, saving the FAA approximately $55,000.

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Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau highlighted the benefits of TSS: “These new simulators give air traffic control trainees a high-tech space to learn, develop and practice their skills. It’s one of the many ways the FAA is increasing the number of air traffic controllers, improving training and keeping our skies safe.”

Despite increasing trainee numbers through TSS, former Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao noted that only a small fraction of applicants become successful candidates: “There’s a tremendous washout of people who just don’t make the final cut, and out of thousands of applicants, 36 successful candidates emerge at the end of the year.” Maintaining high standards while increasing controller numbers will require incentives for qualified individuals.

Nick Daniels, President of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA), outlined an FAA plan that includes retaining experienced controllers with incentive packages and providing opportunities for veteran military controllers. The plan also involves financial incentives for graduates completing initial training milestones and expanding instructor numbers at Oklahoma City's Air Traffic Controller Academy.

The FAA aims to meet requirements set by the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act by ensuring every tower controller has access to a simulator unit by 2028. Despite TSS implementation reducing training timeframes somewhat, becoming a certified professional controller still requires over three years due to extensive classroom and on-the-job experience requirements.

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