The Federal Aviation Administration said Friday it is reducing its long-term staffing target for certified air traffic controllers by about 2,000 positions, citing planned technology upgrades and scheduling improvements aimed at easing strain across the U.S. aviation system. The FAA’s updated workforce plan for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 lowers the target to 12,563 controllers from a previous goal of 14,633.
- The FAA said automated scheduling and attendance tracking tools will help reduce reliance on overtime.
- The agency plans to increase average controller “on position” time to five hours per eight-hour shift, up from four hours currently.
- The controller shortage has been worsened by retirements, attrition, government shutdowns, and pandemic-related hiring disruptions.
- The Trump administration recently launched recruiting campaigns targeting video gamers and introduced retention bonuses for controllers nearing retirement eligibility.
- Congress has allocated $12.5 billion toward broader air traffic control modernization efforts, including radar and telecommunications upgrades.
Relevant Companies
- Boeing ($BA) - Air traffic modernization efforts may impact commercial aviation infrastructure and operations.
- L3Harris Technologies ($LHX) - Supplies aviation communications, surveillance, and air traffic management systems.
- RTX Corporation ($RTX) - Provides radar and aerospace systems tied to FAA modernization projects.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.
