Nashville International faces safety risks from controller shortages and outdated technology

The airspace managed by Nashville’s control tower has expanded by five miles while controller numbers have declined, increasing pressure on staff as traffic continues to grow. According to a retired BNA air traffic controller quoted by The Tennessean: "It's like a ticking time bomb. Sooner or later, something has to go wrong."

For airlines operating at Nashville International, these challenges mean more ground delays and operational restrictions imposed by the FAA. Carriers may need to adjust schedules, use additional reserve crews, and operate less efficiently with fuel consumption due to irregular operations. Such disruptions can impact key performance indicators like on-time arrivals and completion rates, especially during adverse weather.

Passengers traveling through Nashville can expect increased variability such as occasional go-arounds, longer taxi times or holds, rolling delays, missed connections, and limited rebooking options on the same day.

Safety concerns remain prominent as lower staffing reduces the margin for error amid growing passenger numbers. In response, airlines may consider rescheduling flight banks or reducing peak operations until conditions improve.

Potential solutions include accelerated hiring of trained air traffic controllers by the FAA and improving compensation packages or benefits to attract new professionals into this high-stress field.