FAA expands simulation systems amid air traffic controller shortage

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.