Understaffed and overloaded: the crisis in U.S. air traffic control
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Apr 7
- 4 min read
The United States is currently facing a significant shortage of air traffic controllers, a situation that has raised concerns about aviation safety and efficiency.
As of early 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported approximately 10,800 certified controllers, falling short of the estimated need by about 3,500 positions.
At an all-time low
Air traffic controller staffing «is at an all-time low,» said Nick Daniels, president of the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, their union.
In an interview with CNBC, Daniels said the situation has hit a critical point.
«We currently have 10,800 certified professional controllers where we need 14,633. Any hiccup, a government shutdown or anything that disrupts the pipeline of the air traffic controllers coming in, will absolutely hurt the capacity of the flying public, and how many planes we can put in the air at any given time safely,» he added.
Exacerbated by incidents
This staffing crisis has been exacerbated by incidents such as the tragic midair collision between an Army Black Hawk helicopter and an American Airlines regional jet over the Potomac River near Washington, D.C., on January 29, 2025, which resulted in 67 fatalities.
In response to these challenges, the FAA has implemented measures to bolster staffing and enhance safety protocols. For instance, at Reagan Washington National Airport, the FAA increased operational supervisor staffing from six to eight and reviewed air traffic control staffing levels. Additionally, the agency considered reducing the airport's arrival rate to alleviate pressure on controllers. These steps aim to address safety concerns and mitigate operational stress among air traffic controllers.
This staffing deficit has led to increased workloads for existing controllers, often resulting in mandatory overtime and six-day workweeks. Such conditions contribute to fatigue, a factor that has been linked to safety risks. In response, the FAA has implemented measures to provide controllers with additional rest periods between shifts.
However, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA) has expressed concerns that, without addressing the underlying staffing shortages, these measures may necessitate further overtime, potentially exacerbating fatigue rather than alleviating it.
Goal to hire 2,000 air traffic controllers
The FAA has initiated efforts to address the shortage by setting a goal to hire 2,000 air traffic controller trainees in 2025. Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau emphasized the agency's commitment to improving aviation safety through increased staffing.
The current shortage has reignited discussions about the potential privatization of air traffic control services. Proponents argue that privatization could lead to more efficient operations and stable funding.
Can lead to increased costs?
For instance, the Canadian model, where a non-profit organization manages air traffic services, is often cited as a successful example. However, critics, including various aviation industry stakeholders, have expressed concerns that privatization could disadvantage general aviation and lead to increased costs for users.
During his first term in 2017, President Donald Trump proposed transferring air traffic control operations from the FAA to an independent, non-governmental entity. This proposal aimed to modernize the system and reduce delays. However, it faced substantial opposition and was ultimately unsuccessful.
The debate over air traffic control reform underscores the complexities of addressing systemic issues within the aviation sector. While privatization has been presented as a potential solution to modernize and streamline operations, the challenges of implementation, coupled with concerns from various stakeholders, highlight the need for a balanced approach that considers safety, efficiency, and accessibility. As the nation continues to face air traffic control challenges, the discourse initiated during the Trump administration remains a pivotal reference point in shaping future policies aimed at enhancing the U.S. aviation system.
Key facts about the Air Traffic Controller job in the U.S.
What Does an Air Traffic Controller Do?
Coordinate aircraft movements in airspace and on runways.
Prevent collisions by maintaining safe distances between planes.
Manage takeoffs, landings, and en-route flights across multiple zones.
Communicate via radios, radar, and computer systems.
Work in control towers, TRACONs, or ARTCCs (en route centers).
Salary and Benefits
Median salary: around $132,000/year (as of 2024)
Top earners can make over $170,000/year
Overtime and night shifts can increase income
Benefits include:
Full federal retirement package (including pension)
Health insurance
Paid training
Vacation & sick leave
Work Conditions
High stress: must make split-second decisions with lives at stake.
Rotating shifts: includes nights, weekends, and holidays.
Work is done in noisy, windowless environments for long hours.
Fatigue and burnout are real concerns.
Skills Required
Fast decision-making and problem-solving
Clear and calm communication
Strong multitasking and memory
Spatial awareness and mathematical thinking
Teamwork and leadership under pressure
Who Can Apply?
U.S. citizens under 31 years old (for entry-level FAA applicants)
Military veterans may qualify regardless of age
College degree or 3 years of work experience required
Must pass the ATSA test, medical exam, and background checks
Job Challenges Today
Shortage: FAA needs over 3,000 more certified controllers
Retirements: Many experienced controllers leaving the field
Training bottlenecks: Long delays in certifying new hires
Technology lag: The FAA's outdated systems slow progress
ATC Around the World vs. U.S.
Canada uses a private nonprofit model (NAV CANADA) praised for innovation.
U.S. uses a federal government system—some push to privatize (like under Trump in 2017), but met union and public resistance.
