Tuesday, September 24, 2024 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that it surpassed its 2024 hiring target, bringing on 1,811 air traffic controllers by the end of Fiscal Year 2024. This represents the largest intake of new hires in nearly ten years, marking a significant step forward in the FAA’s ongoing efforts to address the long-term decline in air traffic controller staffing levels. “Our dedicated air traffic controllers keep the flying public safe every day,” said FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker .
“I’m thrilled to announce that we hit this major hiring milestone and have so many talented professionals entering our training program. It’s a testament to the hard work of everyone involved and part of our ongoing work to rebuild the controller workforce.” The FAA now oversees a workforce of over 14,000 air traffic controllers.
With this year’s new hires, approximately 3,400 controllers are currently undergoing training at various levels, from foundational courses at the FAA Academy in Oklahoma City to specialized airspace training at one of the FAA’s numerous air traffic control facilities across the country. To support its hiring objectives, the FAA actively recruits air traffic controllers with prior experience from both the military and private sectors. In its continued efforts to expand the pool of air traffic controllers, the agency will open a new application period beginning October 11, 2024.
This extended window will give aspiring.