FAA Launches New Recruitment Initiative for Air Traffic Controllers

Washington – This week, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) introduced a new application portal aimed at boosting recruitment efforts for air traffic control positions, particularly on Long Island. The goal is to hire nearly 9,000 controllers nationwide by the end of 2028.

The New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (Tracon) in East Garden City is focusing on filling 226 positions over the next three years, as detailed in an FAA report.

At present, the facility is facing a shortage of at least 100 certified professional controllers (CPCs).

Transport Secretary Sean Duffy emphasized in a statement that, within the first 100 days of this administration, strides have been made in addressing the air traffic controller shortage compared to the previous four years.

The FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy in Oklahoma City is currently accepting applications from New York Tracon until August 15. Those selected will work in areas with a high cost of living and will receive a $5,000 signing bonus, along with an additional $5,000 after completing initial training.

Meanwhile, the Department of Transportation’s Inspector’s Office is auditing New York Tracon, which manages flights coming to and from JFK and LaGuardia airports. This follows the relocation of air traffic oversight for Newark Liberty Airport from East Garden City to Philadelphia’s radar hub in July 2024.

The recent move has seen 12 CPCs reassigned to Philadelphia, while the remaining New York Tracon staff were pushed to work 60-hour weeks.

Earlier this year, there were incidents of radar blackouts lasting 90 seconds, affecting flight response times at Newark. This has raised concerns about the necessity for more controllers and infrastructure upgrades, as noted by Rep. Laura Gillen (D-NY).

While Gillen appreciates the FAA’s efforts to recruit more controllers, she argues that it’s equally important to reverse the decision that moved controllers from Long Island to Philadelphia. She also expressed eagerness for Secretary Duffy to visit and witness the essential work done by air traffic controllers.

Reports indicate that up to 35% of academy students drop out. This suggests that the FAA needs to improve training and retention methods to meet staffing targets.

This year, almost 1,000 candidates have enlisted at the FAA Academy, with 550 applying just in July after Duffy announced plans to streamline the recruitment process by reducing a significant backlog.

The FAA aims to fill academy classes primarily with candidates from the private sector and the military, hoping to decrease training time by 27% using advanced facility simulators.

Ultimately, over 2,000 new air traffic controllers are expected to join the FAA this year, as part of a larger plan to recruit 8,900 by 2028. Additionally, 4,600 safety inspectors and engineers are anticipated to join by 2034.

Secretary Duffy reaffirmed the administration’s commitment, stating that progress has been made in tackling the air traffic controller shortage.

The ongoing audit by the Department of Transportation highlights the critical staffing challenges faced by New York Tracon, which manages significant flight traffic in and out of major airports.

Recently, the FAA has introduced financial incentives to encourage veterans to remain in service, particularly as many approach a forced retirement age.

The urgency of the FAA’s staffing needs was starkly underscored by a tragic accident earlier in the year that led to the loss of 63 lives, highlighting the importance of ensuring adequate air traffic control staffing levels.