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 controllers additional time to submit their applications and prepare for a career with the FAA. Whitaker added , “Being recruiter-in-chief is one of the most important roles I play at the FAA. We will not rest on the success of this hiring push – we are already thinking about how to meet our goals next year and into the future.
By starting early and casting a wide net for applications, we will continue to make progress on this critical work.” The Role: Air traffic control is one of the most specialized and demanding professions within the federal government. Controllers operate from airport towers and radar rooms at FAA facilities across the country, ensuring the safe separation of aircraft, guiding them through weather conditions, and guaranteeing passengers reach their destinations safely.
What’s Next: Upon completing training at the FAA Academy, trainees will be assigned to either a radar facility or an air traffic control tower. They should be prepared to work various shifts, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, based on their schedules. Assignments will be determined by the FAA’s staffing needs, and trainees must be open to working at any location across the U.
S. Applicant Requirements:.
